Summary of "The Place of the Way: Here" - Sunday Homilies with Fr. Mike Schmitz
Podcast Information:
- Title: Sunday Homilies with Fr. Mike Schmitz
- Host/Author: Ascension
- Episode: 04/13/25 The Place of the Way: Here
- Release Date: April 12, 2025
In the April 13, 2025 episode of "Sunday Homilies with Fr. Mike Schmitz," Fr. Mike delves deep into the concept of "The Place of the Way," emphasizing the importance of living in the present moment rather than constantly striving to reach a future goal. Drawing inspiration from Lent and the life of Jesus, Fr. Mike encourages listeners to cultivate gratitude amidst life's challenges.
1. The Struggle Between Being "Done" and Embracing the Journey
Fr. Mike begins by sharing his personal struggle with anxiety and the desire to be "done" rather than embracing the ongoing journey. He explains:
"I find myself putting off a lot of joy until I'm there. I find myself putting off a lot of peace until I'm done. I find myself in some ways putting off life until I, until I get there." (04:02)
This sentiment resonates with many who feel overwhelmed by life's uncertainties and outcomes, leading them to postpone happiness until goals are achieved.
2. Lent as a Time of Training and Transformation
Linking his thoughts to the Lenten season, Fr. Mike highlights that Lent is not merely about self-denial but asceticism—a period of training to become more like Jesus. He states:
"The season of Lent is not just a time of self denial, not just time of self discipline. It's a time of asceticism, as thesis means training." (09:15)
This training involves being present and embracing the journey, mirroring Jesus' own path.
3. Understanding "The Place of the Way"
Fr. Mike introduces the concept of "The Place of the Way," which encompasses the various stages and places one encounters on their spiritual journey:
- Silence and Desert: Periods of solitude and reflection.
- Crossroads and Valley: Moments of decision and struggle.
- Home and Dead Ends: Familiarity and obstacles.
He emphasizes that the most profound and crucial "Place of the Way" is here and now, especially for those inclined to rush to the end.
"The most important place of the way is here. For those of us who just want to be done, the place of the way is actually on the way." (15:47)
4. Jesus' Example of Gratitude in Suffering
A pivotal part of the homily focuses on Jesus' unwavering gratitude even in the darkest moments. Fr. Mike reflects on the Last Supper:
"When does Jesus give thanks? Jesus gives thanks in the midst of the worst moment of his entire life." (20:30)
He underscores that Jesus thanked God not after the crisis but during it, demonstrating profound faith and trust.
5. The Inspiring Story of Takashi Nagai
Fr. Mike shares the story of Takashi Nagai, a Japanese Catholic and survivor of the Nagasaki atomic bombing. Despite immense personal tragedy, Nagai exhibited extraordinary gratitude. In his book, A Song for Nagasaki, Nagai writes:
"Each day is a gift. I give thanks even for the pain because it reminds me that I'm alive to love." (34:10)
Fr. Mike highlights a poignant moment where Nagai, amidst the devastation of finding his wife's remains, offers a prayer of gratitude:
"Lord, receive her with my gratitude." (37:25)
This act of giving thanks in the face of unbearable loss exemplifies living "on the way."
6. The Deeper Meaning of "Arigato"
Exploring linguistic depth, Fr. Mike explains the Japanese word "arigato," which means more than just a casual "thank you." It signifies:
"This came into existence with difficulty." (45:50)
By understanding this, believers can foster a gratitude that acknowledges the preciousness and effort behind every moment.
7. Applying Gratitude to Our Lives
Fr. Mike challenges listeners to emulate both Jesus and Takashi Nagai by:
- Giving Thanks Ahead of Time: Trusting God even before desired outcomes.
- Thanking in the Midst of Challenges: Finding gratitude during struggles.
- Appreciating the Present: Recognizing the gift of each moment.
He reinforces that:
"The place of the way is here. Therefore, like Jesus, we give God thanks on the way." (52:40)
8. Conclusion: Embracing the Journey with Gratitude
Fr. Mike concludes by urging listeners to anchor their gratitude in the present, mirroring Jesus' example. By doing so, individuals can transform their lives, finding peace and joy not in waiting to be "done," but in fully engaging with each moment.
"Like Jesus, we give God thanks ahead of time because of this. Like Jesus, we give God thanks in the midst... Like Jesus, we give God thanks right here." (58:15)
This profound reminder serves as a call to live more fully as the people God created us to be, rooted in faith and unwavering gratitude.
Notable Quotes:
- "We weren't made for comfort. We were made for courage." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (00:26)
- "The place of the way is here." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (15:47)
- "Each day is a gift. I give thanks even for the pain because it reminds me that I'm alive to love." — Takashi Nagai (34:10)
- "Arigato means this came into existence with difficulty." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (45:50)
- "Like Jesus, we give God thanks right here." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (58:15)
This homily serves as a powerful guide for navigating life's journey with faith, courage, and heartfelt gratitude.