Sunday Homilies with Fr. Mike Schmitz

Discover the humor in mistaken identities as personal tales of mix-ups make you chuckle. Dive into the question of how our perception of God shapes our prayers and the importance of pouring out our hearts without treating Him like a counselor. Explore contrasting images of a father figure, emphasizing a loving, present God over a distant one. Reflect on the Incarnation and Jesus' shared brokenness, revealing profound compassion. Finally, learn how expressing our thoughts deepens our relationship with the divine.

Exploring the significance of baptism, the discussion highlights how it marks the start of new life in Christ. The host reveals two spiritual traps people often fall into: acting as God's advisors and performing for Him. Insights include the danger of trying to direct God in prayer and the pressure of seeking perfection in faith. The value of trust over advising and the freedom found in adoration are emphasized, encouraging a relationship with God rooted in childlike trust rather than performance.

Indifference can easily turn into hostility, especially regarding God’s presence in our lives. Fr. Mike explores how physical closeness can breed a lack of appreciation, like a visit to an amusement park. He contrasts the responses of the Magi and Herod to Jesus, highlighting how proximity can lead to either intimacy or indifference. Offering our best and worst to God is essential, as change is inevitable when we truly encounter Him. Listeners are encouraged to make tangible changes in their lives to foster a deeper relationship with Jesus.

This discussion highlights the importance of recognizing everyday blessings we often overlook. Fr. Mike reflects on how we can learn from Mary, encouraging listeners to pause and appreciate our lives. He shares a poignant story about a new father who discovers the uniqueness of his child, prompting a deeper understanding of parental sacrifices. The homily emphasizes the significance of Mary's role in the Incarnation and suggests creating mental space for reflection. Finally, listeners are inspired to practice daily gratitude through intentional awareness of God's gifts.

Explore the essential roles of Joseph in the Holy Family, highlighting his responsibilities as protector and provider. Discover the contrasts between authentic masculinity and femininity, emphasizing strength in service and trust in relationships. Fr. Mike critiques modern gender stereotypes and urges a biblical approach for healthier marriages. He also delves into practical family guidance from Colossians, encouraging compassion and humility in family life.

What if all you received this Christmas was Jesus? The discussion highlights the essence of waiting for Christ during Advent and challenges listeners to consider what truly remains when festive extras are stripped away. With a mix of personal stories and biblical reflections, gratitude for God's faithfulness shines through as Fr. Mike underscores that living in the present moment is key. The call to actively nurture relationships mirrors the joy of embracing the gift of Jesus, reinforcing that He is indeed worth the wait.

This discussion reflects on the challenge of waiting for what we desire. It contrasts unhealthy waiting habits with trusting, faithful waiting. The speaker encourages focusing on God's promises rather than mere outcomes. Through biblical examples like Habakkuk, listeners learn about unconditional hope even in devastating times. Personal testimonies highlight maintaining faith amid unanswered prayers. A practical tip includes creating a blessing jar to recognize daily gratitudes while waiting. The emphasis is on praising God and maintaining hope, regardless of circumstances.

In a reflective discussion, Fr. Mike explores the theme of waiting well during Advent. He contrasts the hurried culture with the inner transformation God calls us to embrace. Using examples like farming and the growth of bamboo, he illustrates the importance of patience and faith. The power of praise is highlighted as a way to strengthen the heart and foster trust in Christ. Fr. Mike shares inspiring stories, including Paul and Silas in prison and St. Maximilian Kolbe’s faith during suffering, encouraging listeners to find joy in their everyday waiting.

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.