How the Resurrection Revived the Eleven (Easter 24)

The shallowness of the Eleven was revealed by the events of Gethsemane, following the Triumphal Entry of Palm Sunday. Jesus repeatedly found them fast asleep, when they should have been praying for their spiritual protection. Following the arrest, crucifixion and burial of Jesus, the disciples were gathered together in a secrent room with the doors locked in fear of the Jewish leaders pursuit of them as well. Despite reports from Mary Magdalene that the tomb was empty and she had spoken with the risen Christ, most still did not believe....until the Glorified Jesus suddenly appeaered in the room with them. Thomas was missing that evening and likewise refused to believe, until Jesus returned a week later to restore and empower His apostles for action.