Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Episode: Day 86: God’s Plan of Salvation
Release Date: March 27, 2025
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Produced by: Ascension

Introduction

In Day 86 of Ascension's The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into paragraphs 599 to 605 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Titled "God’s Plan of Salvation," this episode continues the exploration of Jesus Christ's redemptive death and its integral role within God's overarching plan for humanity's salvation. Building on the discussions from the previous day, where Fr. Mike emphasized the Church's stance on the role of Jews in Jesus's crucifixion, today's episode shifts focus to understanding the profundity of Christ's sacrifice.

Key Themes and Discussions

1. Christ's Redemptive Death as Part of God's Plan

Fr. Mike begins by affirming that Jesus' violent death was not a result of mere chance or unfortunate circumstances. Instead, it is deeply rooted in the mystery of God's salvific plan. This perspective underscores that every event leading to the crucifixion was intentional and foreseen within God's divine timeline.

• Notable Quote:
  "Christ's violent death was not the result of chance in an unfortunate coincidence or circumstances, but it's part of the mystery of God's plan." (00:08)

2. The Paradox of Divine Foreknowledge and Human Free Will

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the balance between God's omniscience and human free will. Fr. Mike elucidates that while God knows all moments of time simultaneously, He respects human free will, allowing individuals to make genuine choices. This intricate balance is a cornerstone of Catholic theology, emphasizing that divine predestination does not negate human freedom.

• Notable Quote:
  "For the sake of accomplishing his plan of salvation, God permitted the acts that flowed from their blindness." (20:15)

3. Fulfillment of Scripture and Prophecy

Fr. Mike highlights how Jesus' death fulfills Old Testament prophecies, particularly referencing Isaiah 53, which speaks of the suffering servant. He recounts the moment after Jesus' resurrection when He explained to the disciples on the road to Emmaus how His suffering was the fulfillment of these scriptures.

• Notable Quote:
  "Jesus redemptive death fulfills Isaiah's prophecy of the suffering servant." (30:45)

4. Understanding "For Our Sake, God Made Him to Be Sin"

One of the most profound and complex discussions revolves around the statement "for our sake, God made him to be sin." Fr. Mike offers two primary interpretations:

1. Solidarity with Sinners: Jesus, though sinless, fully identified with humanity's sinfulness by taking upon Himself the sins of others, thereby bridging the gap between God and humanity.

   • Notable Quote:
     "He assumed us in the state of our waywardness to sin to the point that he could say in our name from the cross, my God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (45:30)

2. Jesus as the Sin Offering: Drawing parallels to Old Testament sacrifices, Jesus is presented as the ultimate sin offering, taking on the penalty of sin despite being sinless Himself.

   • Notable Quote:
     "He became that sin offering for us." (50:10)

5. God's Universal Redeeming Love

Fr. Mike passionately discusses the universality of Christ's sacrifice, emphasizing that "Christ died for all men without exception." This inclusive approach is foundational to Catholic teaching, asserting that no individual is excluded from God's plan of salvation.

• Notable Quote:
  "There is not, never has been, and never will be a single human being for whom Christ did not suffer." (60:50)

He further encourages listeners to pray for everyone, including those of different faiths or backgrounds, reinforcing the belief in God's boundless love and desire for all to attain salvation.

Insights and Reflections

Throughout the episode, Fr. Mike gracefully navigates the complex interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. He reassures listeners that God's plans are infused with love and respect for human freedom, even amidst the darkest moments like the crucifixion. The discussion sheds light on the depth of God's mercy and the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice, inviting believers to embrace this truth deeply in their hearts.

Conclusion

Day 86 of The Catechism in a Year serves as a profound meditation on God's redemptive plan through Christ's death. Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully unpacks the theological nuances of salvation, free will, and divine love, offering listeners both intellectual understanding and heartfelt encouragement. As the journey through the Catechism continues, this episode stands out as a testament to the infinite grace that underpins Catholic faith.

Final Thought:
"There is not, never has been, and never will be a single human being for whom Christ did not suffer." — A reminder of God's unwavering commitment to humanity's salvation.