Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Episode: Day 37: The Divine Economy
Release Date: February 6, 2025
Introduction
In Day 37 of The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into paragraphs 257 to 260 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, exploring the concept of the Divine Economy and the Trinitarian Missions. This episode unpacks the intricate relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in God's plan of salvation and creation.
The Beauty of God's Plan (00:05 – 03:30)
Fr. Mike begins by highlighting the incredible beauty of God's plan for life, as described in paragraph 257. He emphasizes that God's work spans creation and salvation, showcasing His active presence in both time and space.
"God in Himself is more than we can express, more than we can capture, more than we can imagine or dream of."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [00:10]
He introduces the Divine Economy (Oikonomia), explaining it as the common work of the three Divine Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This collaborative work ensures that God's actions are unified and harmonious.
"The whole divine economy, right? Where God works and how he reveals Himself and gives his life to us is the common work of the three divine Persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [02:15]
Understanding the Divine Economy (03:31 – 10:00)
Fr. Mike breaks down the Divine Economy further, elucidating how each person of the Trinity participates uniquely yet remains inseparably united in their mission.
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Common and Personal Work: The Divine Economy is both a collective and individual effort, revealing the unique properties of each Divine Person while maintaining the unity of God's nature.
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Trinitarian Missions: The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit engage in creation, redemption, and sanctification, respectively, all contributing to the overarching plan without division.
"Everyone who glorifies the Father does so through the Son in the Holy Spirit."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [07:45]
He references the Second Council of Constantinople to underscore the unity and distinct roles within the Trinity:
"The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are not three principles of creation, but one principle."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [05:50]
The Ultimate End of the Divine Economy (10:01 – 15:00)
Fr. Mike discusses the ultimate goal of the Divine Economy: the entry of God's creatures into the perfect unity of the Blessed Trinity. This profound aim signifies not only understanding God but also participating in His divine life.
"The ultimate end of the whole Divine economy is the entry of God's creatures into the perfect unity of the Blessed Trinity."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [09:30]
He emphasizes that this divine interaction is both a common work and a personal relationship, inviting believers to live in communion with each Divine Person without separating them.
Prayer and Reflection (15:01 – 22:00)
The episode concludes with a prayer by Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity, encapsulating the desire to forget oneself and establish a deep relationship within the Trinity.
"O my God, Trinity whom I adore, help me forget myself entirely so to establish myself in you, unmovable and peaceful, as if my soul were already in eternity."
— Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity [17:00]
Fr. Mike reflects on the significance of this prayer, relating it to baptism and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit within believers. He encourages listeners to embrace this divine presence daily.
"The mystery of the Trinity is that God dwells inside of us... we find ourselves wrapped in the Father's love, which comes to us through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [20:45]
Conclusion
Fr. Mike Schmitz wraps up Day 37 by reiterating the profound unity and collaborative mission of the Trinity in the Divine Economy. He invites listeners to contemplate their place within this divine plan and to seek a deeper communion with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
"That every one of us will be able to not only acknowledge the fact that here is God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, that united in this single action, right, this..."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [21:30]
He closes with a heartfelt prayer, asking for peace and a steadfast heart to remain in God's presence.
Key Takeaways
- Divine Economy Defined: The collective work of the Trinity in creation, salvation, and sanctification.
- Unity in Trinity: Despite distinct roles, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit operate in perfect unity.
- Ultimate Goal: Integration of God's creatures into the divine life of the Trinity.
- Personal Communion: Encouragement to cultivate a personal relationship with each Divine Person.
- Prayer as Reflection: Utilizing prayers, like that of Blessed Elizabeth, to deepen one's connection with the Trinity.
Final Thoughts
Day 37 offers a profound exploration of the Trinity's unified mission in the Divine Economy. Fr. Mike Schmitz skillfully unpacks complex theological concepts, making them accessible and relatable. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their relationship with the Trinity and embrace the divine plan of salvation and unity.
Stay Tuned: Join us tomorrow for Day 38 as we continue our journey through the Catechism, uncovering more insights into the Catholic faith.