Ascension - The Pandemic

Let’s reflect on these readings in the context of the global lockdown and pandemic of 2020, a time that indeed called for deep reflection on life and what comes next.

Readings for the Solemnity of the Ascension (May 24, 2020)

• First Reading: Acts 1:1-11
• Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 47:2-3, 6-7, 8-9
• Second Reading: Ephesians 1:17-23
• Gospel: Matthew 28:16-20 (Year A)

Reflection on the Readings

First Reading: Acts 1:1-11 – A Mission in a Time of Uncertainty

In Acts, Luke recounts Jesus’ ascension, describing how, after 40 days of appearing to His disciples and speaking about the Kingdom of God, Jesus commissions them: “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). As He ascends, a cloud hides Him from their sight, and two men in white assure the disciples that He will return.

In May 2020, the world was deep in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns were in place across the globe, with many churches closed, and Catholics attending Mass virtually. The uncertainty of the pandemic—hospitals overwhelmed, economies faltering, and millions isolated—might have made the disciples’ experience feel relatable. They, too, faced an uncertain future as Jesus left them, yet He gave them a mission. For Catholics in 2020, this reading was a call to witness to Christ’s love in new ways, even amidst lockdown. Perhaps it meant reaching out to a lonely neighbor, praying for healthcare workers, or sharing faith online. The Ascension reminded us that, even in a pandemic, we are called to act, not just wait passively. Reflecting on this now, it’s a chance to ask: What did the lockdown teach me about my purpose? What comes next for my faith in a post-pandemic world?

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 47 – Joy Amidst Sorrow

Psalm 47 sings, “God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord” (v. 6). It’s a celebration of God’s kingship, with all peoples called to “clap your hands” and “shout to God with cries of gladness” (v. 2). The Ascension is a moment of triumph—Jesus returns to the Father, victorious over death.

Yet, in May 2020, joy might have felt distant for many. The pandemic had claimed hundreds of thousands of lives globally, with the U.S. alone reporting over 97,000 deaths by late May. Families couldn’t gather to mourn, and the isolation of lockdown weighed heavily. In this context, Psalm 47’s call to rejoice was both a challenge and a comfort. Christ’s ascension assures us that He reigns, even over a world in crisis. This invites deep reflection on life: Where do I find joy when the world is suffering? The pandemic stripped away many distractions, forcing us to confront what truly matters—faith, family, and love. As we move forward, this psalm calls me to hold onto that clarity, to praise God’s kingship, and to live with a renewed sense of purpose.

Second Reading: Ephesians 1:17-23 – Hope in Christ’s Reign

Paul prays that the Ephesians may know the hope of their calling and the “immeasurable greatness” of God’s power (Ephesians 1:19). He describes Christ’s exaltation: God seated Him at His right hand, “far above every principality, authority, power, and dominion,” making Him head of the Church (v. 21-22).

During the lockdown of 2020, this reading offered a lifeline of hope. The pandemic revealed the fragility of human systems—governments struggled to respond, economies teetered, and science raced for solutions. In contrast, Paul’s words proclaim Christ’s ultimate authority. For Catholics unable to attend Mass in person, this reminder of Christ’s reign was a source of strength. It also prompted reflection on what comes next. The pandemic exposed inequalities, like access to healthcare and the struggles of essential workers. As Christ’s body, the Church is called to reflect His authority by advocating for justice and serving the vulnerable. Looking back, I’m challenged to consider: How can I live out this hope today, ensuring the lessons of 2020 aren’t forgotten?

Gospel: Matthew 28:16-20 – Christ’s Presence in a Time of Absence

In Matthew’s Gospel, the disciples meet Jesus on a mountain in Galilee, where some worship Him while others doubt (Matthew 28:17). Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me,” and sends them to “make disciples of all nations” (v. 18-19). He promises, “I am with you always, until the end of the age” (v. 20).

In May 2020, this Gospel would have resonated deeply. The physical absence of Jesus from the disciples mirrors the absence many Catholics felt during the lockdown—absence from the Eucharist, from community, from normalcy. Yet Jesus’ promise to be “always” with us was a profound comfort. During the pandemic, many discovered new ways to encounter Christ—through livestreamed Masses, family prayer, or acts of charity. The Great Commission to “make disciples” took on new meaning as Catholics found creative ways to evangelize, even from home. Reflecting on this now, the lockdown was a time to reassess priorities. What comes next? For me, it’s a call to remain connected to Christ’s presence, especially in the Eucharist, and to continue sharing His love in a world that still longs for healing.

Personal Reflection

The readings for the Ascension on May 24, 2020, speak powerfully to the experience of the pandemic and lockdown. Acts calls me to be a witness, even in isolation. Psalm 47 invites me to find joy in Christ’s reign, despite sorrow. Ephesians assures me of His authority, giving me hope. And Matthew reminds me that Jesus is with me, even when I can’t feel Him. The lockdown was a stark reminder of life’s fragility—it forced me to reflect on what truly matters: my relationship with God, my loved ones, and my purpose. As we move forward in 2025, these lessons remain relevant. The pandemic taught us resilience, but also revealed where we need to grow—in faith, in community, in service. The Ascension assures me that Christ reigns, and I’m called to live out His mission with renewed clarity and hope.

Conclusion

The Ascension readings on May 24, 2020, offered Catholics a message of hope and purpose during the lockdown. In a time of isolation and fear, they reminded us of Christ’s triumph, His presence, and our mission. Reflecting on this now, the pandemic was a turning point—a chance on life and what comes next. May we continue to live as witnesses to Christ’s love, trusting in His promise to be with us always.

Readings:

http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/052420-ascension.cfm