Scripture Reflection, May 17, 2026, The Ascension of the Lord

Acts of the Apostles 1:1-11 Ephesians 1:17-23 Matthew 28:16-20

Today's gospel from Matthew describes the Ascension of the Lord. I was intrigued to read, "When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted.” They doubted! Exactly what was it they doubted? There have been multiple post- resurrection appearances of Jesus by this time as Luke recalls in the first reading. Forty days of appearances. Certainly they did not doubt that this was indeed Jesus raised from the dead. What, then, did they doubt?

I wonder if their doubts centered around, What now? How will we go on without him? Are we up to the task he asks of us?

We all have had similar experiences, times when we take on new responsibilities. We put on shoes we have not walked in before. A period of courtship leads to a wedding and a new beginning. A graduation signals the end of a period of instruction and the beginning of new engagement with the world. After a job interview we are hired and step into a role we've not had before. Even if this new life is something we desire, it is new to us. New skills will be required. New relationships will be formed. Our new role will make demands on us that we have not encountered before. It's natural to doubt.

But a few lines later we hear Jesus say "Go! … I am with you always, until the end of the age.” Is this his response to the qualms his disciples might be feeling? His way of saying, “You can do this. You are not alone, I am still close.”

Like these eleven we too are sent to "Make disciples of all nations… Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. “

Pope Leo has spoken about our need to be missionaries of hope. “Missionary zeal is born from an encounter with Christ. We desire to share with others what we have received, so that they, too, can come to know the fullness of love and truth found only in him. As you draw close to Jesus through fellowship, the sacraments and Eucharistic Adoration do not be afraid to ask him what he's calling you to.”

Then, "Go! “. Share the good news! And know that he is with you.

by: Pat Schnee, OPA