Sunday Homilies with Fr. Mike Schmitz

Explore the profound meaning of the Immaculate Conception and its implications for all of us. The idea that God prepares a path for grace, rather than just repairing sin, invites us to live in the moment. Fr. Mike underscores Mary's unique 'yes' to God, contrasting it with Eve's. He connects the feast's significance to our own lives through the sacraments like baptism and Communion. Ultimately, the call to embrace the 'Sacrament of the Present Moment' challenges us to respond to grace with immediacy.

Explore the transformative power of waiting during Advent. Fr. Mike discusses how our impatience often leads to worry, stealing our joy. He offers practical tips to ease the burden of waiting, like focusing on the present moment. Trusting God's timing is essential; after all, Jesus' life exemplifies unshakeable faith. Personal stories of discernment and biblical examples like King David illustrate how surrendering worry can lead to profound peace. Ultimately, it's about entrusting our weaknesses to God and embracing hope.

On the First Sunday of Advent, the discussion revolves around the concept of waiting. Fr. Mike uses marathon training as a metaphor for active preparation during this season. He highlights how much of life is filled with waiting and questions listeners about their personal longings. The marshmallow experiment illustrates our struggle with patience, while common pitfalls of waiting are addressed. Emphasizing that waiting should be an engaged process, Fr. Mike reminds us to recognize that God is actively working in each moment.

The discussion explores the profound truth that victory often comes through vulnerability. Fr. Mike connects Queen Esther's courageous decisions to Christ's crucifixion, emphasizing God's choice to empty Himself. He highlights how true love involves risk and vulnerability, distinguishing between sheer weakness and relational openness. Personal stories illustrate the power of vulnerability in evangelization. Ultimately, listeners are challenged to embrace the vulnerable King and reflect on their relationship with Him.

The discussion dives into profound questions like whether we prefer admiration over love. It reflects on the Day of the Lord, emphasizing how God reveals our true selves. Fr. Mike critiques hypocrisy and underlines the importance of integrity. He warns against clinging to sin, using a compelling analogy from Lord of the Rings. The idea of judgment, both particular and final, is explored, highlighting how honesty and surrender can transform our wounds into testimonies. Listeners are encouraged to embrace love through genuine prayer and confession.

Explore the significance of dedication in both churches and individuals. Fr. Mike reflects on the first temple's role as a symbol of God's presence and how Jesus fulfills that as the true temple. He challenges listeners to embody their Christian calling and transform society, sharing historical impacts of Christianity. With bold encouragement, he urges believers to reach out to those in need and champions a radical commitment to mission, reminding everyone of their potential to 'set the world on fire' with their purpose.

Explore profound questions about the afterlife, including how our attachments reveal readiness for heaven. Discover the concept of purgatory not as punishment, but as a merciful process of purification. Fr. Mike compares the healing of the soul to surgery and rehab, emphasizing that sanctification is a lifelong journey. Learn how prayers during Mass can aid souls in their final purification. Ultimately, appreciate the joy that comes from transformation and preparation for a loving reunion in heaven.

Explore the powerful theme of humility in the face of God. Reflect on how many approach Heaven with their 'resumes' rather than true faith. Discover why self-reliance can lead to isolation from grace. Embrace the idea that we have nothing to prove or hide before God. Fr. Mike encourages authenticity, urging listeners to present their true selves for healing. Ultimately, the way to Heaven is through Jesus' sacrifice, not our accomplishments.

Explore the power of persistent prayer through a captivating parable. Discover how the middle moments of our lives, often overlooked, hold significant consequences. Fr. Mike emphasizes the need to remain faithful amid challenges and reframes difficulties as opportunities for growth. Learn how resistance can strengthen faith and why recovery is more important than perfection. Ultimately, this discussion urges listeners to find grace in perseverance and stay committed, demonstrating that faith thrives even in trying times.

Fr. Mike reflects on breaking the cycle of desperate prayer and forgetting by grounding our lives in a relationship with God. He shares a personal story about a miraculous moment from his teenage years. The significance of Naaman's healing is explored, emphasizing gratitude and reminders. Practical methods to maintain thankfulness are discussed, including identifying sources of goodness and regular prayers. He stresses the importance of sharing testimonies and living daily on the foundation of Jesus' saving work.