The Difference Between Contracts and Covenants

In this podcast episode, Father Mike Schmitz discusses the difference between contracts and covenants in the context of marriage. He explains that contracts are agreements for an exchange of goods or services based on conditions, whereas covenants are exchanges of persons with no conditions. Father Mike highlights that approaching marriage with a contract mentality can be shallow and lead to pain, as it may involve conditional acts of love, such as being patient or faithful if the partner reciprocates. On the other hand, viewing marriage as a covenant means committing to love unconditionally, even if the other person leaves. It is emphasized that marriage is a high calling, a vocation, and an opportunity to love imperfect individuals unconditionally.