Sunday Homilies with Fr. Mike Schmitz: Episode Summary
Title: On Purpose: The Next Step
Release Date: February 8, 2025
Introduction
In the February 8, 2025 episode of "Sunday Homilies with Fr. Mike Schmitz," hosted by Ascension, Fr. Mike delves into the theme of purpose and the courage required to take the next step in one's spiritual journey. Building on the prior week's discussion about God's call and vocation, this homily encourages listeners to overcome fear and paralysis by embracing God's grace and actively responding to His call.
Scriptural Foundation
Fr. Mike begins with a reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke, recounting the story of Jesus calling Simon Peter and his partners to become "fishers of men." This narrative serves as the cornerstone for his exploration of purpose and vocation.
Gospel Excerpt:
"From now on you will be catching men." (Luke 5:10)
Overcoming Fear and Paralysis
Fr. Mike draws a parallel between the intense decision-making depicted in the Netflix series Squid Game and the spiritual decisions believers face. He describes a specific challenge in the show where contestants must cross a fragile glass bridge, symbolizing the fear and paralysis that can accompany significant choices.
Notable Quote:
"You're just absolutely paralyzed because they're so afraid of getting that next step wrong." — Fr. Mike Schmitz [12:45]
This example illustrates the common human experience of being overwhelmed by the fear of making the wrong decision, leading to inaction.
Embracing God's Grace
Central to Fr. Mike's message is the assurance of God's grace. Referencing St. Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, he emphasizes that it is by God's grace that believers are who they are, and this grace is effective and present in their lives.
Biblical Reference:
"It is by God's grace that I am what I am." — 1 Corinthians 15:10
Fr. Mike reassures listeners that with God's grace, all they need is to be available and willing to try, removing the burden of having to figure everything out alone.
Notable Quote:
"Whatever that next step is, it's not all up to you to figure that out alone." — Fr. Mike Schmitz [18:30]
Availability and Willingness to Try
Fr. Mike breaks down the process of discerning one's vocation into two essential components:
- Availability: Being open to God's call.
- Willingness to Try: Taking actionable steps despite uncertainties and fears.
He underscores that following Jesus often involves small, incremental steps rather than monumental leaps. Using Simon Peter as an example, Fr. Mike illustrates how gradual obedience leads to significant spiritual growth.
Notable Quote:
"Because Simon Peter and Isaiah are both available and they're willing to try, that breaks through fear." — Fr. Mike Schmitz [25:10]
Decision-Making Framework
To aid in making wise decisions, Fr. Mike introduces a four-question framework modeled after assessing doors:
- Is this a good door?
- Evaluates the moral and spiritual alignment of the decision.
- Is it an open door?
- Assesses the feasibility and possibility of the choice.
- Is it a wise door?
- Considers personal context, past experiences, and future goals.
- Is this a door you want to walk through?
- Reflects personal desire and commitment to the choice.
Notable Quote:
"Is this a good door, is it an open door, is it a wise door, is it a door I want to walk through." — Fr. Mike Schmitz [32:15]
This framework encourages deliberate and prayerful decision-making, ensuring that choices align with God's will and one's personal vocation.
Embracing Imperfection and Growth
Fr. Mike acknowledges the fear of making mistakes but highlights that decision-making, much like sighting in a rifle, involves adjustments and learning from misses. He emphasizes that God's presence remains constant, providing guidance and support regardless of the outcome.
Notable Quote:
"We cannot be surprised when change is needed, because the more you do it, the better you get at recognizing God's voice." — Fr. Mike Schmitz [38:50]
Illustrative Story: Father Scott's Experience
To exemplify the homily's message, Fr. Mike shares an inspiring story about Father Scott, a priest and carpenter. While seeking brackets for a project, Father Scott prayed for God's guidance, opting to visit Home Depot instead of Menards. Although unable to find the needed items and directed back to Menards, Father Scott encountered a man in distress. Their encounter led to a transformative moment where Father Scott was able to offer support and prayer, illustrating that taking the next step can lead to unexpected and meaningful opportunities to live out one's purpose.
Notable Quote:
"Father Scott realized the truth. That yeah, he was looking for brackets but God had sent him to look for a lost son." — Fr. Mike Schmitz [45:25]
This narrative reinforces the theme that stepping forward in faith, even amidst uncertainty, can fulfill God's greater plan.
Conclusion: Moving Forward with Purpose
Fr. Mike concludes by reiterating that with God's grace, believers are equipped to take the necessary steps toward their vocation. He encourages listeners to remain available and willing, trusting that God will guide and support them through every decision and challenge.
Final Notable Quote:
"No matter which step you prayerfully take, he'll be there to help you stay on purpose." — Fr. Mike Schmitz [50:10]
Key Takeaways
- God's Call: Recognize and embrace the vocation God has placed upon your life.
- Overcoming Fear: Understand that fear of making wrong decisions is natural, but faith and grace can overcome paralysis.
- Decision-Making: Utilize a structured framework to make wise and purposeful choices.
- Grace and Support: Trust in God's ongoing presence and guidance, even when outcomes are uncertain.
- Actionable Steps: Be proactive in responding to God's call through availability and willingness to try.
Reflection Questions
- How can you apply the four-question framework to a current decision in your life?
- In what ways can you remain available and willing to respond to God's call, despite uncertainties?
- Reflect on a past decision where stepping out in faith led to unexpected growth or opportunities.
Closing Prayer
Fr. Mike invites listeners to pray for the courage to take the next step in their spiritual journey, trusting in God's grace and guidance every step of the way.
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God Bless.