As a Protestant considering Catholicism, I really appreciated this video, Fr. Mike. It’s really good to know we as the Church are willing to concretely tackle this type of thing.
i was a protestant two years ago, now i am in the RCIA, i'd recommend for you to search about scott hann and lila rose's interview in pints with aquinas, may God bless you champ
@@cindyrobertson3798 I was just about to say the same thing! You beat me to it lol...may God bless us ALL, everyone! 💙 ...and may He also grant Fr Mike a long and healthy life so he can continue to put wise words on an otherwise crazy situation ~ he has a way of sorting out even the most bizarre happenings in our world so we can all understand God's will in these situations, and apply it better to our own lives. 💙
ACCEPT CHRIST, GET BAPTIZED UNDER WATER, AS AN ADULT, FOLLOW THE HOLY SPIRIT AND IT'S 9 GIFTS.... GO TO A PENTICOSTAL CHURCH. ALL OTHERS ARE SATANIC. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. POINT.
Father Mike, I know u probably won’t ever even see this, but I love your videos, and this is now one of my favorite. I have been preaching this message for years after serving two tours in Iraq as active duty army infantry. Peace is a gift, but mankind’s brokenness makes it fleeting. Be ready always for change and always trust in God when it happens because no one else can carry you through!
Fr. Mike this is fantastic. Please talk more about current events and how we as Catholics should respond. Too many within the Church are afraid to take on the current world affairs. You are an amazing and entertaining speaker. I would love to hear your thoughts more often on what's going on with the world and guidance for getting through it.
I feel like I've spent more time with Fr. Mike over this past year than I have with my family. He doesn't know me, but to me, he's a trusted friend. I appreciate his timely reminder to prepare for the inevitable.
I praise God for your podcasts Fr Mike. The Lord has raised a good shepherd to feed his sheep. So many Catholics need to understand the word of God and you do it so well through the gifts of God. God bless you! Thanks for praying for us and we will keep you in our prayers. Following Bible in a year too! So good! Inpires me to love God!
Very true when hurricane Odette struck our city last Dec 16, 2021 during pandemic. No electricity here. No water. Everyone in my neighborhood is busy fixing their homes in the aftermath. We had to fetch water, take a bath and do laundry at a creek 4 km away in the mountain parts, on foot. Looking back, Im grateful with my neighbors. Nobody hoarded the releif goods. People with generators shared their power. We all went together on the same creek, rich and poor alike. Its very dark at night bec electricity was out for half a month. Despite all that, there was more laughter. We gather at night time and tell stories of how we survived the day to day living.
I was about 11 yrs. old during the 1983 Ethiopian famine. I remember lying in bed at night and a feeling washed over me of great intensity that this could happen to us. Are we really more special than Ethiopians or any other people? Even then I thought the Lord was preparing me for an unknown future. I’ve had many blessings in my life but I’ve never forgotten that lesson.
The fact that we are in unstable times reflects the brokenness that's in ourselves, Community and the world. Right now,If we ordinary people focus on healing ourselves, to help heal each other, heal family, then community, then Government then international, only then can stability return...today let's make an example of ourselves for the sake of a better tomorrow..Thank you Father! 🇮🇪
Unbelievable Fr. Mike you are spot on. Once again you Father have hit it right on. As a returning Catholic we need to hear more of current events, this is why we lost so many Catholics in the first place Father Mike. You have much courage to be able to speak your thoughts in a way that captures our THOUGHTS and makes us THINK about Jesus and his teachings. You have such a powerful platform to reach so many people. I will continue to pray for you everyday Father Mike, God bless you and the people who allow you to teach us. 🙏🙏🙏
Yes! I will be sharing this with my students. The question every Christian gets to ask is, “Where do I serve?” Thank you, Father Mike. You are held in prayer.
Very good idea . One of the most important video in Human history...there are not many so wise people in the world, but in comments we have. We need to always be prepared... Because always will be stable and unstable, why? because always will be good and evil, finally because There is GOD and Satan, and free will of Human. We always have a choice to make/to do a right things that The Holy Trinity teaches us about.
You are serving every day, Fr. Mike! Thank you for being such a strong and loving and Good Shepherd! Thank you for shedding light on these current events! May God Bless You!
Many of us have had pretty stable lives. Thank you Father for the wake up call that many of us or all of us will face. God bless you! Praying for peace in the world.
My maternal grandparents were from Ukraine. When I saw all the constant news about the Will Smith slap it deeply saddened me. Innocent people are dying in Ukraine. I’d much rather view Pope Francis speaking with Ukrainian children. Thank you, Father Mike, for focusing us on prayer for Ukraine and Russia. God Bless. 🙏
I thought of that too. A simple little slap runs around the world on social media, but everyone puts up with this terrible war going on in Russia and Ukraine. And not only there. In the Middle East, human rights violation in place like North Korea, and China and other communist countries. But a little tap in the cheek makes headline news!! It's absolutely ridiculous and disgusting. Yes all these other things are being talked about but also a feeling of "🤷 oh well, what can we do about it!!!"
Father Mike, I believe you have been used by the lord to convert me to Catholicism. You are a true man of God. Thank you for the words God has given you to give to us. God Bless.
@@eddyrobichaud5832 do you or did you ever call your father “father”? Or do you just call him by his first name because you think Jesus is saying you can’t call anyone father other than God?
Agreed. I haven't seen a new movie in almost that long and cut off my cable about 5 years ago, as well. Don't read the paper or watch the news. Best decisions I ever made, aside from the one to be a traditional Catholic.
I think it's great that you comment on current affairs and bring everything back to the Catholic faith, telling us how to interpret these events in the light of our faith. As a Catholic convert, I still find it hard sometimes to "know what to think" of current affairs in my role as a Catholic. This is very helpful.
THIS is one of the best advice / sermons I've heard. It is also the best advocacy why we need to be better Catholics or if people are not Catholic, why they need an ethical system. No one ever talks about this. If someone breaks the rules -- we need an ethical and purposeful way to address and remedy serious problems. THIS is how you do that. I was a Peace Corps volunteer in the former Soviet Central Asia. You got to see the breakdown of society and what happens when people fail to follow the rules, often in the most horrible ways. Unfotunately, many people turned to addiction - drinking and/or drugs -- to be able to cope with the harmful effects of people failing to follow rules. Having an ethical system helps you "keep it together" and hold on, when insecurity results and/or rocks your universe. I love being Catholic but I believe everyone, non-Catholic and Atheist, you need ETHICS. I find that Catholicism speaks so deeply and talks about uncomfortable things rarely mentioned in our society. Yes, ethics matter. There are uncomfortable things that Catholicism advocates -- like forgiving people who've failed to follow the rules and/or have wronged or harmed us. Asking for God's forgiveness if we are the ones breaking the rules and have the sense to regret this. Protecting life -- not just babies but adults, too. Being kind to each other and treating each other how we want to be treated. These might seem 'softball' actions but they are the most powerful and impactful. We can intervene and say, this is NOT the way, to show -- there is a better way to share God's planet with each other, and strive to play a fruitful part by remembering to love each other and try to fix what is broken so that suffering is reduced and people have an idea of what a good model of living is. Thank you for this powerfully introspective and call to action-video.
Thank you Father Mike for a grounded, clear, Catholic perspective and tying these things together. And it's a insightful point that the lights and water working is because of a long line of people making sure that happens and what a blessing that is. My one caveat would be that we are seeing more breaks in the "norm" in recent history. The riots here in the U.S. that destroyed billions of dollars in property and killing dozens, the burning of churches in France and Canada, war in Ukraine, North Korea and Iran on a path to nuclear weapons, the bitter divisions on a wide variety of cultural issues, brutal live fight sports and violent video games... and on and on. It can seem like the Will and Chris "event" was actually an extension of societies fraying at the edges. Being prepared to sacrifice or stand tall, discerning which is right with prayer, is wise preparation.
.. one of the most important video in Human history...there are not many so wise people in the world, but in comments we have. We need to always be prepared... Because always will be stable and unstable, why? because always will be good and evil, finally because There is GOD and Satan, and free will of Human. We always have a choice to make/to do a right things that The Holy Trinity teaches us about.
And Mike Pence following the rules against pressure to ignore the rules on 6 Jan 2021. Against his own political self interest. Serving in the face of instability.
Thank you for your insight Fr. Mike Also John we don't pray "to" Mary or any Saint we pray asking them to intercede for us. Just like we ask others to pray for us. Prayer is powerful. God Bless EVERYONE IN THE WORLD.
my daughter's teacher was murdered by her former teacher a month ago. that instability, that broken rule has been earth shattering. I appreciate these thoughts today
Thank you for this message! People around me keep saying they aren’t too concerned that their grown children don’t go to Mass because they are good people. It’s not enough folks!
@Veronica Rainone According to you, "priests don't believe in God they believe in humanism." You do not know what any priests think or believe ...much less what ALL priests think. It is not POSSIBLE for you to know what other people think. It is doubtful that any priest believes in humanism instead of God or that, at the very least, they would claim this belief you are telling us they all have. On the OTHER hand, your comment sounds to me like a resentful litany of grievances written by someone who has been mistreated or has some great sorrow in life. I wonder what has been done to you to cause you such pain that you would publish opinions like what you are expressing in this post. Whatever has happened to you, I am very sorry, and I know that there are probably other Catholics on this thread who would want to extend some compassionate regard toward you. Whatever has made you so unhappy, try not to castigate an entire category of persons in a futile effort to find someone to blame for your pain. Also, try to remember that priests are human beings like the rest of us, and everyone does the best they can. It's just that someone's "best" is rarely ever good enough in the eyes of the rest of humanity, especially when there are high expectations.
What you are talking about, reminded me of what the Canadian truckers went through, who peacefully protested, looked violence head on and didn't fight back. They took a beating. It reminded me of Christ/Jesus went through. They experienced a small taste of it. I pray that if things come to that, that we have the grace to face it.
first time I see you live. God bless dear Fr. Mike ... I'll keep the phrase "where can I serve"... specially in those moments because Our Lord came to Earth to serve and not to be served... beautiful, have a great and blessed rest of the day for all who are reading this.
What a Wonderful sermon, Father In addition to thinking "How can I fight" We must Also consider "How can I serve" How can I bring healing... In Judaism, there is an ethic Tikkun Olam "heal the world" There is also " leave the world a better place" Thank you Father
I love how God uses the number seven. Did you know Rome where the Vatican is it’s upon seven mountains? Esquiline, Palatine, Aventine, Capitoline, Quirinal, Viminal, and Caelian Revelation 17 9 And here is a mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are the seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.
Amen Father! We are so so broken. I always think you (BIY) when I realize the brokenness in my life and I really try not to judge others. Pray and take it to Jesus. Thank you Father Mike for this video. God bless you always! 🙏🏼✝️🙏🏼
I think a good starting point to fighting that is to give up the mindset of "at least we're not/better than xxx" whether it's Russia or your lousy neighbor. Comparing to those less perfect than us may be fun (for some) and teach us some lessons, but it doesn't help us reaching UP and striving for perfection.
I'm about to go for a walk in the dark and was looking for something on UA-cam to get my head into a Jesus space to take with me. This is just what I was looking for, thank you Father Mike.
When I was a leadership facilitator I used to keep certain phrases on my board throughout the entire six-week course. One was: "Life is 10% about what happens to you and 90% about how you respond to it." We often tend to lead with our emotions, that is part of our fallen nature, but Father Mike is right, an ounce of reflection is worth a pound of cure. Well put Father.
Want a blessing? ♥️ Revelation 1 3 Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.
“Where can I serve?” The message doesn’t get simpler than that. Thank you, Fr. Mike, for helping us see the perfect response to the mess that the world can be today.
.. one of the most important video in Human history...there are not many so wise people in the world, but in comments we have. We need to always be prepared... Because always will be stable and unstable, why? because always will be good and evil, finally because There is GOD and Satan, and free will of Human. We always have a choice to make/to do a right things that The Holy Trinity teaches us about.
Message received. I'll stop tweeting. (Fr. Mike Schmitz is speaking directly to me, right? 😏) Joking aside, I needed this reminder to always act like Christ and serve, especially when life is unstable (and yes, even in my own broken heart). God bless you, Fr. Mike Schmitz!
This was great Father. Thank you. Always using something and turning it around to help us live our lives as better Catholic Christian’s. Standing up and speaking out for those who can’t. Praying for you.
Remember there’s ONLY ONE CHURCH therefore protestant’s are NOT Christian! God bless. Watch Don’t call protestant’s Christian. Then The Papacy can NOT be destroyed. Then the warning or illumination of conscience by Christine Watkins. Praise Jesus and Mary always!!!
@@simonslater9024 If a pagan picked up a bible and started reading it and believing it, I wonder how he would react if you told him, say 20 years later, that he wasn't a christian. I would suggest that your remarks would have little effect on him because he had become a christian just from reading the bible on his own and so far he hasn't noticed anything in the bible about the church having a head man. Your remarks only serve to keep people catholics but have no power on those outside the RC church. People have the right to think for themselves before God. You can't take that right away. And God commends it.
I watched the Oscars,Smith slapping Chris. That image got stuck in my mind so much and it became very difficult for me to pray as I thought of Ukraine! I got very upset, sad, and fearful about what human beings do to each other to get what in this world? Thanks Fr. Mike.
Whooah so enlightening thank you Fr Mike! As humans we tend to forget to look into ourselves when we know we are not affected by circumstances, instead we judge easily or worst, care less and be selfish. This is such a timely reminder we really need to pray about and be prepared. ❤🙏
Thank you for what you do. Been going through tough times. You changed my life and I want to become better for God. Be assured of my prayers for you. Please pray for me that I may persevere!!
This was great Father Mike... it's not just about Chris Rock and Will Smith. People are going through something and families aren't getting along friends are having issues. People are getting shot in Manhattan and elsewhere... I am so happy to see your video. I think the slap heard around the world was the Lord bringing it out that so many people are dealing with something and just are close to a breaking point. I for one welcome more videos like this one...
A very unique take on these different situations, but an even more important message about what we take for granted and I agree. It is easy to forget that there are armies of people working all the time to keep the lights on, keep the water flowing, keep the shelves stocked and keep the food plentiful. Even easier to forget that it's only possible because we continue to work together peacefully despite differences.
I love the number seven in the Bible it’s so cool how God uses it. Did you know that Rome where the Vatican is built on seven mountains. Palatine hill, capitoline , Quirinal, Viminal , Esquiline, caelian and Aventine. Revelation 17 9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The Seven heads are the seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.
Thank you Fr Mike 🌟 We are often troubled, but not crushed; sometimes in doubt, but never in despair; there are enemies, but never without a friend; and though badly hurt at times, yet we are not destroyed. At all times we carry in our mortal bodies the death of Jesus, so that his life also may be seen in our life. 2 Corinthians 8-10 When we serve the poor and the sick we serve Jesus🌻
Fr. Mike, thank you for this video! It's so amazing how God works! I just had our Confirmation class last night. After a lesson, before I went on to the next, I had the thought to ask students to write down their own thoughts on the Will Smith slap. The answers pleasantly surprised me in a good way. Definitely yes, we need to talk about these current situations, it's what's on people's minds. We concluded that for, the very least we can do is pray for everyone involved. God bless you For. Mike!!
I am an Anabaptist and listened to this video, on your channel, for the first time. As a Mennonite, I've considered this topic many times. And you are correctly considering this question. Thanks. Good to hear a representative of the Catholic Church talking about this topic.
This is really a powerful and timely message. As someone who’s living in political turmoil and under the threat of war, closely following up the situation around the world especially Ukraine, I feel this message so close and alarming... Thank you so much Fr.Mike. I will follow what you said. God bless you.
Will smith thinks he puts up with a lot and the industry is cruel. You know where people put up with a lot? People who work the night shift on the loading dock of Walmart for minimum wage. They put up with a lot. Will, you should make positive changes in your life, give away your MILLIONS, move into a crummy apartment in Detroit and work for Walmart. You have been making millions and hearing applause since you were a teenager. You should work for Walmart. Chris Rock is a gentleman far beyond the man you want to be.
I suspect that Will smith thought he was going to be hailed as a hero for being a 'man' and defending his family. You had no right to do what you did and you should suffer consequences for your decision.
I'm a Christian, but not Catholic, but I'm delighted to hear your frank look at real life, and what we can do. We are in an unstable world, but yes, Father Mike, we have to continue to ask God, daily, What do You want me to do today? How can I serve You, and not myself.
Thank you, Fr. Mike, for being the first commentator I've seen to make this connection, which has been nagging at me since Sunday. The Oscar thing as microcosm, Putin's outright invasion of Ukraine as macrocosm, but both events clearly showing that though we can aspire to our ideals, we cannot live in them. Thank you for bringing larger context to this moment.
It is human pride that we see in both men. DW was right, this was exactly how Will was vulnerable to attack in his greatest moment. We can only be honest and see ourselves in this pride as well and do our utmost to hold back the strong man again and again each moment. A house divided can not stand.
The Ukraine conflict has nothing to do with pride, and has everything to do with Russia not feeling safe with an ever expanding NATO and a kiev regime supported by people like the Azov batallion, look up who they are if you don't know. Zelensky betrayed his own campaign promises in 2019 when he refused to follow the Minsk peace agreement, which Kiev had signed.
Thank you, Fr. Mike, for tackling both the cross and the cords, because sometimes we don't hear those spoken of together, or one is diminished (usually the cords) or ignored. Thank you for being honest and forthright to deal with both sides and also to deal with this large topic from the godly and holy and ready to be active perspective. God bless you and your ministry and Ascension for bringing wonderful voices for the Lord to us like yours!
Father Mike - the best I have to say about it is that it does tie into human life, and directly relates to malevolence. It's not a word that is used very often, but it is a word that is necessary in conversations like this.
sounds like you're hiding under Chris Rock haha ( Jimmy kimmel) anyways lets be real: there's a real world out there and sometimes you need to expose yourself a little to it, perhaps it will give you something to pray about/for. Perhaps its a sign to apply your faith in religious/religion to pray for what is currently going on (current affairs). :) God Bless and sorry if Father new content offend most of US but again we humans and have freedom of speech! God have Mercy and Bless Us all! :)
It's out of character for Father Mike, but the need to know what's happening to our country to be prepared for what's coming is important, as unpleasant it is. Information is necessary.
Im with you, it seems there is a lot of fakeness in social media, negativity in the news, it can get overwhelming. If I do see feeds, I try to only focus on things that are food for thought or funny.
Well said Fr. Mike. I am a retired Marine and everything you said is why we have military and why Americans serve. We would rather things not happen, but they do, so we are ready to serve. And being prepared means being trained to do things you do not want to do as a Christian, but knowing that it's either serve or see your people impacted. As said, I retired as a Marine, but not as a Christian. So I still serve.
Fr. Mike, thanks for addressing current events. Some people think Catholicism is outdated because the Bible addresses past cultures but people need to see how relevant the Bible and it's teachings are: then, now and always.
I agree, Fr. Mike is the bridge between the Bible and applying it to our lives. I'm so grateful for his ability to bring God's Word from past, into current context. Once you hear it, you can't (I can't) live without it.
Once again, Father Mike you are amazing at choosing the proper words. You are so right to remind us that we take things for granted, like light from a light switch. Thank you for telling us that we need to be prepared. Thank you Lord Jesus for helping us to be prepared. I pray for the war going on now to come to an end. Please Jesus help the people suffering from any kind of war. Teach us to serve and ask "where can I serve".
Did I just saw Fr. Mike's arm tattoo in this video???😁 Always full of insight and wisdom. When things go out of hand and people break the rules, ask yourself, "where/how can I serve?" We are here on earth to serve and not to be served.😇🙏
Thanks Fa Mike....Ukraine has us all on edge, horrified...Making a plan for the care of the refugee women and children that are beginning to arrive here helps.....Opening spare rooms in your home is a good idea....Activity helps the stress....
I did not, do not, and will never watch the Oscars. Hollywood is a cesspool of compromised characters who may have started off with good intentions but are eventually corrupted. They are not role models for your kids. Lets pray for these lost souls of Hollywood.
Father Mike, you give a good talk. Its analytical, logical yet in a religious approach. When I go to church and listen to the sermon of the priest, when its a good sermon.....it transends me. Like I hear God's wise words talking to me and brings me to tears. Perhaps, it may be tears of realization and it helps me contemplate my ways, my day, my life, then eventually de-stresses me.
Beautifully said. The fragility of life is real and we have had a taste of it w the pandemic. And ur analogy w Will Smith and Putin’s action are spot on. “Be as simple as doves and clever as serpents.” Amen.
"Fragility of life". A virus with a >99.9% survival rate. You know what's really fragile? Our God given free will that so many people have given up in the name of safety.
Fr Mike This was an amazing video, and a profound perspective of our world. Thank you for sharing as this has allowed me to have larger discussions with non-catholics about whats going on in the world. It has also helped me to not stress about what is out of our control. Pray more worry less, god bless you for this talk!
thank you father mike. i struggle with righteous indignation, how to resond to an obvious breakin of the rules. i secretly admire will smith but with a reservation that it probaly was not how Jesus would have responded. It all comes back to how to speak the truth with love. as a gun bearin catholic in a high crime residence i dont wanna kill any body. i find myself almost wishin that these drug dealing nieghbors would assault a woman that would require deadly force on my behalf and know that this is not how a christian should frame himself. it is thru prayer i find consolation and relief. God Bless.
Your willingness to defend another by deadly force as a last resort is OK. That’s a warrior, protector mindset. The desire to take a life is not. I sympathize with your thought process. I know ammunition is expensive but hope you can visit a range and safely practice. IF…IF the worse case scenario arises, your neighbors need you to be accurate. Accuracy prevents innocents from harm. God bless.
Father Mike, thank you so much. You always shift my perspective and inspire me to really become the best version of myself. "Where can I serve when people don't follow the rules?"
@@alexanderbrown2717, Jesus was stating make no person, no teacher, no family member, your God. This is what happens when scripture is taken out of context to justify Christians who’ve fallen away from the one, true Christian Church. I would know, I left Protestantism and converted to RCC. I was taught to memorize snippets of scripture, taken out of context, then I came to the Catholic Church for the truth and I stay for my Lord Jesus, truly present, in body, blood, soul, and divinity. I pray the Holy Spirit leads you on a path to truth, love, and mercy.
Thanks, Fr. Schmitz. It reminds me to prioritize --- it reminds me that God's "opinion" of us is more important, even as I understand that the other person is entitled to have their own opinions about anything, including about us. Thanks for the reminder that it is from God that we find stability. I also like that you invite us to be honest with ourselves in asking, "was there any truth to the other person's comment?" Every moment is a learning moment, keeping in mind that a partial truth doesn't mean that everything that person says is true. I so appreciate your words and your guidance, and that your voice "reaches" far and wide. God bless you!
How fragile life scares me. One day everyone I know will die. God forbid anyone I love dies tragically. I feel like I take a lot of things for granted. I often feel like I know nothing about real life because I lived in a middle-class neighborhood in the suburbs.
I used to feel like this too because I’ve barely lived through any tragedies compared to what some people have went through. But I’ve learned that that doesn’t matter. Do all things for God, no matter how easy or difficult your life gets. When the day comes that tragedies or challenges enter your life, lean into God's love and ask for His grace to bear whatever you’re going through. It won’t be easy, but you’ll make it through.
@@IONov990 Believe me, I used to be too. I used to cry almost daily because I was afraid something horrible would happen soon. But you know what? Since then, there were only a few little tragedies that have happened, and I got through them with God's grace. What I lost was so much time worrying. If instead I took a deep breath, prayed, cried only for a little while (Crying is actually good for you once in a while!), but then put those worries in God's hands, I could’ve been so much more productive with my time. For example, one thing I used to worry about A LOT was my mom unexpectedly passing away. If instead of crying and worrying about it for endless hours, I could’ve spent more time WITH her and made more happy memories. You know what? It’s over 10 years later and she’s still alive and in good health. I had nothing to worry about. But say if she did pass away, worrying about it limits the quality time I’ve had with her. And that would’ve been a regret of mine. It will take a lot of time, effort, and practice to become less scared about these things. Keep praying about it. And remember, this world isn’t our permanent home. Someday we'll all be united in heaven with absolutely nothing to worry about.
As shepherds go, you are on my top 10 list. Practical spiritual help in an impractical world… The Holy Spirit lives in you… thank you for saying your YES to God Fr. Mike… 🙏🏻
It's like when people of African descent are being denied transport out of Ukraine. Blatant racism in a humanitarian crisis😢 I agree with Fr. Mike, our faith is tried and tested when life is unstable and the rules are being broken
Fr Mike, Unfortunately, we live in a world where everyone does NOT do their part....a world where God is not the most important being to all. It's a daily challenge. Simple as doves and clever as serpents....thank you for promoting our faith and God.
Good Sunday ALL...I am trying g to remind myself daily to be positive and keep my words positive. It gets hard when I see Will Smith and Putin etc...actions. I have been praying that Putin's hurt and heart heals. I Pray for Peace and Love to ALL 🙏💜🌍
As a military leader I have to understand how people perform under combat conditions. From my studies and from what I have seen, people in Western industrialized cultured are arrogant in their sense of moral self. They have not been confronted with situations of survival. During the Vietnam War a company of soldiers who were a fair representation of the demography of the US at that time were ordered to kill women and children (an illegal order) More than 70% complied. Were these "evil" men. Well the statistics say they were quite ordinary. The difference was the situation. Ordinary people are capable of very evil things when the rules change. Look at how many women are having abortions. Look at the amount of divorce we have. In order to not be the 70% when the rules change you need a strong sense of self and the power of the holy spirit inside you.
That means we should stop being sheep and don't believe anything society and organisations tell us because they all have hidden interests. I follow the divine consciousness inside me. I know exactly when I do wrong because She tells me immediately and I feel remorse and shame. We must encourage people to look inside their hearts where divine consciousness resides and let her guide us instead of men of the world.
@@dhanyrafael I agree with your thoughts that are reflected in the bible that we should not put our faith in any man or prince. But, from a Christian and Catholic perspective we believe that we are all fallen creatures. We cannot have 100% faith in our own abilities to resist sin especially in an era like ours that glorifies and encourages sinful and selfish behavior. We must continue to grow our knowledge and understanding of morality and what God wants us to do. But we also must invite in the w Holy Spirit to give us strength when the flesh is weak. If we solely rely on ourselves, we will fall.
As a Protestant considering Catholicism, I really appreciated this video, Fr. Mike. It’s really good to know we as the Church are willing to concretely tackle this type of thing.
i was a protestant two years ago, now i am in the RCIA, i'd recommend for you to search about scott hann and lila rose's interview in pints with aquinas, may God bless you champ
I was Protestant too ; confirmed Catholic last year God bless!
Welcome to the family.
@@cindyrobertson3798 I was just about to say the same thing! You beat me to it lol...may God bless us ALL, everyone! 💙 ...and may He also grant Fr Mike a long and healthy life so he can continue to put wise words on an otherwise crazy situation ~ he has a way of sorting out even the most bizarre happenings in our world so we can all understand God's will in these situations, and apply it better to our own lives. 💙
ACCEPT CHRIST, GET BAPTIZED UNDER WATER, AS AN ADULT, FOLLOW THE HOLY SPIRIT AND IT'S 9 GIFTS.... GO TO A PENTICOSTAL CHURCH. ALL OTHERS ARE SATANIC. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. POINT.
Father Mike, I know u probably won’t ever even see this, but I love your videos, and this is now one of my favorite. I have been preaching this message for years after serving two tours in Iraq as active duty army infantry. Peace is a gift, but mankind’s brokenness makes it fleeting. Be ready always for change and always trust in God when it happens because no one else can carry you through!
Thank you for your Service. God Bless
Thank you for your comment! It's a good solid point. May God bless you!!
“Peace is a gift, but mankind’s brokenness makes it fleeting.” That was so powerful.
Appreciate this.
You are so right Nicholas- peace if fragile because of humanities brokenness. God is the only stable answer in our live. God Bless you always.
Fr. Mike is the Arch. Bishop Fulton Sheen of our time! God Bless him.
Agreed. And Bishop Sheen was so awesome.
Fr. Mike this is fantastic. Please talk more about current events and how we as Catholics should respond. Too many within the Church are afraid to take on the current world affairs. You are an amazing and entertaining speaker. I would love to hear your thoughts more often on what's going on with the world and guidance for getting through it.
Me too
🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦
@@bethf157 Me three 🙏🙏🙏
Thing is there are lots of people who talk about current events. I don't want Fr. Mike going down a rabbit hole and becoming just another pundit.
@@TheWhitePine5 same here, Glad someone thinks the same
We are called to prepare and ask, "How will I respond? .... How can I serve?"
Thank you for planting seeds about this forward thinking.
I often forget how fragile our way of life is. Thank you for reminding me Father.
I feel like I've spent more time with Fr. Mike over this past year than I have with my family. He doesn't know me, but to me, he's a trusted friend. I appreciate his timely reminder to prepare for the inevitable.
I praise God for your podcasts Fr Mike. The Lord has raised a good shepherd to feed his sheep. So many Catholics need to understand the word of God and you do it so well through the gifts of God. God bless you! Thanks for praying for us and we will keep you in our prayers. Following Bible in a year too! So good! Inpires me to love God!
Very true when hurricane Odette struck our city last Dec 16, 2021 during pandemic. No electricity here. No water. Everyone in my neighborhood is busy fixing their homes in the aftermath. We had to fetch water, take a bath and do laundry at a creek 4 km away in the mountain parts, on foot. Looking back, Im grateful with my neighbors. Nobody hoarded the releif goods. People with generators shared their power. We all went together on the same creek, rich and poor alike. Its very dark at night bec electricity was out for half a month. Despite all that, there was more laughter. We gather at night time and tell stories of how we survived the day to day living.
I was about 11 yrs. old during the 1983 Ethiopian famine. I remember lying in bed at night and a feeling washed over me of great intensity that this could happen to us. Are we really more special than Ethiopians or any other people? Even then I thought the Lord was preparing me for an unknown future. I’ve had many blessings in my life but I’ve never forgotten that lesson.
The fact that we are in unstable times reflects the brokenness that's in ourselves, Community and the world.
Right now,If we ordinary people focus on healing ourselves, to help heal each other, heal family, then community, then Government then international, only then can stability return...today let's make an example of ourselves for the sake of a better tomorrow..Thank you Father! 🇮🇪
And that's the Irish flag btw lol
Unbelievable Fr. Mike you are spot on. Once again you Father have hit it right on. As a returning Catholic we need to hear more of current events, this is why we lost so many Catholics in the first place Father Mike. You have much courage to be able to speak your thoughts in a way that captures our THOUGHTS and makes us THINK about Jesus and his teachings. You have such a powerful platform to reach so many people. I will continue to pray for you everyday Father Mike, God bless you and the people who allow you to teach us. 🙏🙏🙏
Yes! I will be sharing this with my students. The question every Christian gets to ask is, “Where do I serve?” Thank you, Father Mike. You are held in prayer.
Very good idea . One of the most important video in Human history...there are not many so wise people in the world, but in comments we have. We need to always be prepared... Because always will be stable and unstable, why? because always will be good and evil, finally because There is GOD and Satan, and free will of Human. We always have a choice to make/to do a right things that The Holy Trinity teaches us about.
You are serving every day, Fr. Mike! Thank you for being such a strong and loving and Good Shepherd! Thank you for shedding light on these current events! May God Bless You!
Many of us have had pretty stable lives. Thank you Father for the wake up call that many of us or all of us will face. God bless you! Praying for peace in the world.
I take A LOT for granted.
@@IONov990 me too!
My maternal grandparents were from Ukraine. When I saw all the constant news about the Will Smith slap it deeply saddened me. Innocent people are dying in Ukraine. I’d much rather view Pope Francis speaking with Ukrainian children. Thank you, Father Mike, for focusing us on prayer for Ukraine and Russia. God Bless. 🙏
You want to watch that pachamama statue worshiping heretic speaking with Ukrainian children?
I thought of that too. A simple little slap runs around the world on social media, but everyone puts up with this terrible war going on in Russia and Ukraine. And not only there. In the Middle East, human rights violation in place like North Korea, and China and other communist countries. But a little tap in the cheek makes headline news!! It's absolutely ridiculous and disgusting. Yes all these other things are being talked about but also a feeling of "🤷 oh well, what can we do about it!!!"
@Buddy indeed. News is propaganda and poisons your mind.
Father Mike, I believe you have been used by the lord to convert me to Catholicism. You are a true man of God. Thank you for the words God has given you to give to us. God Bless.
Jesus Christ started the Catholic Church he didn’t start Orthodoxy which the great schism of 1054 AD stay with Jesus Christ Holy Catholic Church.
@Buddy it's definitely a close second .
Prayers for you on your path 🙏 to the fullness of the faith
@@eddyrobichaud5832 It is the universal church -- that is what it means. The term was used from the early church fathers.
@@eddyrobichaud5832 do you or did you ever call your father “father”? Or do you just call him by his first name because you think Jesus is saying you can’t call anyone father other than God?
Fr. Mike, I hope your channel becomes the next “slap around the world.”
Amen
I strongly disagree, as he's also human, and has every right to freedom of expression and speech! God Have Mercy and Bless Us all!!! :)
Ooh, too soon.
Yes your channel should be the next slap heard around the world 🌍
Haven't watched the Oscars in 10 years. Hollywood is nothing to hold in any kind of esteem.
I agree with you.
The old saying..."you can put lipstick on a pig and call it Monique but it's still a pig" rings true about Hollywood.
Agree.
I believe the oscars are sodom and gomorrah. To each his own.
Agreed. I haven't seen a new movie in almost that long and cut off my cable about 5 years ago, as well. Don't read the paper or watch the news. Best decisions I ever made, aside from the one to be a traditional Catholic.
I think it's great that you comment on current affairs and bring everything back to the Catholic faith, telling us how to interpret these events in the light of our faith. As a Catholic convert, I still find it hard sometimes to "know what to think" of current affairs in my role as a Catholic. This is very helpful.
How long before you realize that it's a big club and you and I are not invited?
THIS is one of the best advice / sermons I've heard. It is also the best advocacy why we need to be better Catholics or if people are not Catholic, why they need an ethical system. No one ever talks about this. If someone breaks the rules -- we need an ethical and purposeful way to address and remedy serious problems. THIS is how you do that.
I was a Peace Corps volunteer in the former Soviet Central Asia. You got to see the breakdown of society and what happens when people fail to follow the rules, often in the most horrible ways. Unfotunately, many people turned to addiction - drinking and/or drugs -- to be able to cope with the harmful effects of people failing to follow rules. Having an ethical system helps you "keep it together" and hold on, when insecurity results and/or rocks your universe.
I love being Catholic but I believe everyone, non-Catholic and Atheist, you need ETHICS. I find that Catholicism speaks so deeply and talks about uncomfortable things rarely mentioned in our society. Yes, ethics matter. There are uncomfortable things that Catholicism advocates -- like forgiving people who've failed to follow the rules and/or have wronged or harmed us. Asking for God's forgiveness if we are the ones breaking the rules and have the sense to regret this. Protecting life -- not just babies but adults, too. Being kind to each other and treating each other how we want to be treated. These might seem 'softball' actions but they are the most powerful and impactful. We can intervene and say, this is NOT the way, to show -- there is a better way to share God's planet with each other, and strive to play a fruitful part by remembering to love each other and try to fix what is broken so that suffering is reduced and people have an idea of what a good model of living is. Thank you for this powerfully introspective and call to action-video.
Thank you Father Mike for a grounded, clear, Catholic perspective and tying these things together. And it's a insightful point that the lights and water working is because of a long line of people making sure that happens and what a blessing that is. My one caveat would be that we are seeing more breaks in the "norm" in recent history. The riots here in the U.S. that destroyed billions of dollars in property and killing dozens, the burning of churches in France and Canada, war in Ukraine, North Korea and Iran on a path to nuclear weapons, the bitter divisions on a wide variety of cultural issues, brutal live fight sports and violent video games... and on and on. It can seem like the Will and Chris "event" was actually an extension of societies fraying at the edges. Being prepared to sacrifice or stand tall, discerning which is right with prayer, is wise preparation.
.. one of the most important video in Human history...there are not many so wise people in the world, but in comments we have. We need to always be prepared... Because always will be stable and unstable, why? because always will be good and evil, finally because There is GOD and Satan, and free will of Human. We always have a choice to make/to do a right things that The Holy Trinity teaches us about.
And Mike Pence following the rules against pressure to ignore the rules on 6 Jan 2021. Against his own political self interest. Serving in the face of instability.
Thank you for your insight Fr. Mike
Also John we don't pray "to" Mary or any Saint we pray asking them to intercede for us. Just like we ask others to pray for us. Prayer is powerful. God Bless EVERYONE IN THE WORLD.
my daughter's teacher was murdered by her former teacher a month ago. that instability, that broken rule has been earth shattering. I appreciate these thoughts today
Wait, what? Your daughters teacher was murdered by her former teacher? A teacher murdered another teacher?
Thank you for this message! People around me keep saying they aren’t too concerned that their grown children don’t go to Mass because they are good people. It’s not enough folks!
@Bryan EXCELLENT POINT!
@Veronica Rainone According to you, "priests don't believe in God they believe in humanism." You do not know what any priests think or believe ...much less what ALL priests think. It is not POSSIBLE for you to know what other people think. It is doubtful that any priest believes in humanism instead of God or that, at the very least, they would claim this belief you are telling us they all have. On the OTHER hand, your comment sounds to me like a resentful litany of grievances written by someone who has been mistreated or has some great sorrow in life. I wonder what has been done to you to cause you such pain that you would publish opinions like what you are expressing in this post. Whatever has happened to you, I am very sorry, and I know that there are probably other Catholics on this thread who would want to extend some compassionate regard toward you. Whatever has made you so unhappy, try not to castigate an entire category of persons in a futile effort to find someone to blame for your pain. Also, try to remember that priests are human beings like the rest of us, and everyone does the best they can. It's just that someone's "best" is rarely ever good enough in the eyes of the rest of humanity, especially when there are high expectations.
There is nothing we can do about our grown children. God will make his own decisions quit judging others Susan Mayotte.
Special Intention: USA 🇺🇸: Mother Immaculate, pray for us
In Thanksgiving: Jesus I trust in You ( USA)
What you are talking about, reminded me of what the Canadian truckers went through, who peacefully protested, looked violence head on and didn't fight back. They took a beating. It reminded me of Christ/Jesus went through. They experienced a small taste of it. I pray that if things come to that, that we have the grace to face it.
I LOVE that you addressed a relevant current event and explained how we can respond in a Christ-like way. MORE, please!
first time I see you live. God bless dear Fr. Mike ... I'll keep the phrase "where can I serve"... specially in those moments because Our Lord came to Earth to serve and not to be served... beautiful, have a great and blessed rest of the day for all who are reading this.
What a Wonderful sermon, Father
In addition to thinking "How can I fight"
We must Also consider "How can I serve"
How can I bring healing...
In Judaism, there is an ethic Tikkun Olam
"heal the world"
There is also " leave the world a better place"
Thank you Father
I love how God uses the number seven.
Did you know Rome where the Vatican is it’s upon seven mountains?
Esquiline, Palatine, Aventine, Capitoline, Quirinal, Viminal, and Caelian
Revelation 17
9 And here is a mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are the seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.
Too bad they do the opposite. They are at war with the Church and world.
Amen Father! We are so so broken. I always think you (BIY) when I realize the brokenness in my life and I really try not to judge others. Pray and take it to Jesus. Thank you Father Mike for this video. God bless you always! 🙏🏼✝️🙏🏼
When truth becomes subjective in society, the rules no longer matter in society.
Wow, that is SO true!
Right?!! So true. These "personal truths". Yuck. Woke is a joke.
I think a good starting point to fighting that is to give up the mindset of "at least we're not/better than xxx" whether it's Russia or your lousy neighbor. Comparing to those less perfect than us may be fun (for some) and teach us some lessons, but it doesn't help us reaching UP and striving for perfection.
Well said! My dad said when a society loses it's morality, if falls. It's happening now. We must pray, pray, pray. ❤🙏
I'm about to go for a walk in the dark and was looking for something on UA-cam to get my head into a Jesus space to take with me. This is just what I was looking for, thank you Father Mike.
When I was a leadership facilitator I used to keep certain phrases on my board throughout the entire six-week course. One was: "Life is 10% about what happens to you and 90% about how you respond to it." We often tend to lead with our emotions, that is part of our fallen nature, but Father Mike is right, an ounce of reflection is worth a pound of cure. Well put Father.
Want a blessing? ♥️
Revelation 1
3 Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.
“Where can I serve?” The message doesn’t get simpler than that. Thank you, Fr. Mike, for helping us see the perfect response to the mess that the world can be today.
🙏✝️AMEN✨🌹✨
.. one of the most important video in Human history...there are not many so wise people in the world, but in comments we have. We need to always be prepared... Because always will be stable and unstable, why? because always will be good and evil, finally because There is GOD and Satan, and free will of Human. We always have a choice to make/to do a right things that The Holy Trinity teaches us about.
Message received.
I'll stop tweeting.
(Fr. Mike Schmitz is speaking directly to me, right? 😏)
Joking aside, I needed this reminder to always act like Christ and serve, especially when life is unstable (and yes, even in my own broken heart).
God bless you, Fr. Mike Schmitz!
Fr Mike we all need to hear this! God bless you!
This was great Father. Thank you. Always using something and turning it around to help us live our lives as better Catholic Christian’s. Standing up and speaking out for those who can’t. Praying for you.
Father Mike this came in PERFECT timing. I love how you make a current event about how we as Catholic Christians should react.
Remember there’s ONLY ONE CHURCH therefore protestant’s are NOT Christian! God bless. Watch Don’t call protestant’s Christian. Then The Papacy can NOT be destroyed. Then the warning or illumination of conscience by Christine Watkins. Praise Jesus and Mary always!!!
It if cc
@@simonslater9024 Protestants are Christian! All followers of Jesus are meant to be united not say things like that.
@@simonslater9024 If a pagan picked up a bible and started reading it and believing it, I wonder how he would react if you told him, say 20 years later, that he wasn't a christian. I would suggest that your remarks would have little effect on him because he had become a christian just from reading the bible on his own and so far he hasn't noticed anything in the bible about the church having a head man. Your remarks only serve to keep people catholics but have no power on those outside the RC church. People have the right to think for themselves before God. You can't take that right away. And God commends it.
Mike is not your father!
Thank you Fr. Mike for being there to help us understand how we are to respond when life is stable and unstable. God bless you.
I watched the Oscars,Smith slapping Chris. That image got stuck in my mind so much and it became very difficult for me to pray as I thought of Ukraine! I got very upset, sad, and fearful about what human beings do to each other to get what in this world? Thanks Fr. Mike.
Whooah so enlightening thank you Fr Mike! As humans we tend to forget to look into ourselves when we know we are not affected by circumstances, instead we judge easily or worst, care less and be selfish. This is such a timely reminder we really need to pray about and be prepared. ❤🙏
Amazing words, Father. Thank you for the clarity and the reminder that the world is changing always. Be ready for Heaven!
Thank you for what you do. Been going through tough times. You changed my life and I want to become better for God. Be assured of my prayers for you. Please pray for me that I may persevere!!
This was great Father Mike... it's not just about Chris Rock and Will Smith. People are going through something and families aren't getting along friends are having issues. People are getting shot in Manhattan and elsewhere... I am so happy to see your video. I think the slap heard around the world was the Lord bringing it out that so many people are dealing with something and just are close to a breaking point. I for one welcome more videos like this one...
A very unique take on these different situations, but an even more important message about what we take for granted and I agree. It is easy to forget that there are armies of people working all the time to keep the lights on, keep the water flowing, keep the shelves stocked and keep the food plentiful. Even easier to forget that it's only possible because we continue to work together peacefully despite differences.
I love the number seven in the Bible it’s so cool how God uses it.
Did you know that Rome where the Vatican is built on seven mountains.
Palatine hill, capitoline , Quirinal, Viminal , Esquiline, caelian and Aventine.
Revelation 17
9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The Seven heads are the seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.
I agree!👍
I agree goes to Maximus Aralieous.
What don't you get about the fact that every government hates you?
Thank you Fr Mike 🌟
We are often troubled, but not crushed; sometimes in doubt, but never in despair; there are enemies, but never without a friend; and though badly hurt at times, yet we are not destroyed.
At all times we carry in our mortal bodies the death of Jesus, so that his life also may be seen in our life.
2 Corinthians 8-10
When we serve the poor and the sick we serve Jesus🌻
Fr. Mike, thank you for this video!
It's so amazing how God works! I just had our Confirmation class last night. After a lesson, before I went on to the next, I had the thought to ask students to write down their own thoughts on the Will Smith slap. The answers pleasantly surprised me in a good way. Definitely yes, we need to talk about these current situations, it's what's on people's minds. We concluded that for, the very least we can do is pray for everyone involved.
God bless you For. Mike!!
I am an Anabaptist and listened to this video, on your channel, for the first time. As a Mennonite, I've considered this topic many times. And you are correctly considering this question. Thanks. Good to hear a representative of the Catholic Church talking about this topic.
This is really a powerful and timely message. As someone who’s living in political turmoil and under the threat of war, closely following up the situation around the world especially Ukraine, I feel this message so close and alarming... Thank you so much Fr.Mike. I will follow what you said. God bless you.
As a Canadian, We are also experiencing a spiritual battle at the present time and it is getting bigger by the day. The battle is at to our doorstep.
I love that Fr. Mike used real worlds events in relation to Christianity
Will smith thinks he puts up with a lot and the industry is cruel. You know where people put up with a lot? People who work the night shift on the loading dock of Walmart for minimum wage. They put up with a lot. Will, you should make positive changes in your life, give away your MILLIONS, move into a crummy apartment in Detroit and work for Walmart. You have been making millions and hearing applause since you were a teenager. You should work for Walmart. Chris Rock is a gentleman far beyond the man you want to be.
I suspect that Will smith thought he was going to be hailed as a hero for being a 'man' and defending his family. You had no right to do what you did and you should suffer consequences for your decision.
Well his wife cheated on him which is a capital crime and worse than working a crummy job.
Father, the way you preach is what we need to keep Catholics and bring more people to Christ.
Hey, Father Mike! Greetings from P. R. 🇵🇷 God bless you! Count in my prayers.
Timely, thought-provoking, deep thoughts expressed in simple terms. Excellent, Fr Mike.
I'm a Christian, but not Catholic, but I'm delighted to hear your frank look at real life, and what we can do. We are in an unstable world, but yes, Father Mike, we have to continue to ask God, daily, What do You want me to do today? How can I serve You, and not myself.
Thank you, Fr. Mike, for being the first commentator I've seen to make this connection, which has been nagging at me since Sunday. The Oscar thing as microcosm, Putin's outright invasion of Ukraine as macrocosm, but both events clearly showing that though we can aspire to our ideals, we cannot live in them. Thank you for bringing larger context to this moment.
It is human pride that we see in both men. DW was right, this was exactly how Will was vulnerable to attack in his greatest moment. We can only be honest and see ourselves in this pride as well and do our utmost to hold back the strong man again and again each moment. A house divided can not stand.
The Ukraine conflict has nothing to do with pride, and has everything to do with Russia not feeling safe with an ever expanding NATO and a kiev regime supported by people like the Azov batallion, look up who they are if you don't know. Zelensky betrayed his own campaign promises in 2019 when he refused to follow the Minsk peace agreement, which Kiev had signed.
Thank you, Fr. Mike, for tackling both the cross and the cords, because sometimes we don't hear those spoken of together, or one is diminished (usually the cords) or ignored. Thank you for being honest and forthright to deal with both sides and also to deal with this large topic from the godly and holy and ready to be active perspective. God bless you and your ministry and Ascension for bringing wonderful voices for the Lord to us like yours!
Thank you dear Father Mike. You always steer us in the right direction!
Father Mike - the best I have to say about it is that it does tie into human life, and directly relates to malevolence. It's not a word that is used very often, but it is a word that is necessary in conversations like this.
Trying my best to not watch current affairs and listen to more religious shows but thank you for merging both
sounds like you're hiding under Chris Rock haha ( Jimmy kimmel) anyways lets be real: there's a real world out there and sometimes you need to expose yourself a little to it, perhaps it will give you something to pray about/for. Perhaps its a sign to apply your faith in religious/religion to pray for what is currently going on (current affairs). :) God Bless and sorry if Father new content offend most of US but again we humans and have freedom of speech! God have Mercy and Bless Us all! :)
This is really out of character for Father Mike. I love him.
It's out of character for Father Mike, but the need to know what's happening to our country to be prepared for what's coming is important, as unpleasant it is. Information is necessary.
Im with you, it seems there is a lot of fakeness in social media, negativity in the news, it can get overwhelming. If I do see feeds, I try to only focus on things that are food for thought or funny.
Same!!!
Well said Fr. Mike. I am a retired Marine and everything you said is why we have military and why Americans serve. We would rather things not happen, but they do, so we are ready to serve. And being prepared means being trained to do things you do not want to do as a Christian, but knowing that it's either serve or see your people impacted. As said, I retired as a Marine, but not as a Christian. So I still serve.
Fr. Mike, thanks for addressing current events. Some people think Catholicism is outdated because the Bible addresses past cultures but people need to see how relevant the Bible and it's teachings are: then, now and always.
ua-cam.com/video/_RioVzvSMjY/v-deo.html
I agree, Fr. Mike is the bridge between the Bible and applying it to our lives. I'm so grateful for his ability to bring God's Word from past, into current context. Once you hear it, you can't (I can't) live without it.
Once again, Father Mike you are amazing at choosing the proper words. You are so right to remind us that we take things for granted, like light from a light switch. Thank you for telling us that we need to be prepared. Thank you Lord Jesus for helping us to be prepared. I pray for the war going on now to come to an end. Please Jesus help the people suffering from any kind of war. Teach us to serve and ask "where can I serve".
Did I just saw Fr. Mike's arm tattoo in this video???😁
Always full of insight and wisdom. When things go out of hand and people break the rules, ask yourself, "where/how can I serve?" We are here on earth to serve and not to be served.😇🙏
Wondering the same thing on the tattoo!
I noticed the tattoo also, what does it say?
I saw the tattoo too!
@@lindakochensky3258 IHS: a Christogram; a combo of letters that represent the holy name, Jesus :) It's a very nice tattoo!
I was wondering about the tattoo as well!
Father your faith is amazing and I am truly trying and striving. Thank you.
Thanks Fa Mike....Ukraine has us all on edge, horrified...Making a plan for the care of the refugee women and children that are beginning to arrive here helps.....Opening spare rooms in your home is a good idea....Activity helps the stress....
life is unstable, we need to be ready, where can we serve- all very important messages and very timely! God Bless you Father Mike.
I did not, do not, and will never watch the Oscars. Hollywood is a cesspool of compromised characters who may have started off with good intentions but are eventually corrupted. They are not role models for your kids. Lets pray for these lost souls of Hollywood.
Father Mike, you give a good talk. Its analytical, logical yet in a religious approach.
When I go to church and listen to the sermon of the priest, when its a good sermon.....it transends me. Like I hear God's wise words talking to me and brings me to tears. Perhaps, it may be tears of realization and it helps me contemplate my ways, my day, my life, then eventually de-stresses me.
Never thought I’d see Will Smith and Vladimir Putin used in the same title lol
Neither did i, but this is the world today.
Wendy Walsh also did this.
So true. Thank you, Father Mike. 🕊🕊💕💖🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼 God bless you…Ave Maria 🌷
Beautifully said. The fragility of life is real and we have had a taste of it w the pandemic. And ur analogy w Will Smith and Putin’s action are spot on. “Be as simple as doves and clever as serpents.” Amen.
"Fragility of life". A virus with a >99.9% survival rate.
You know what's really fragile? Our God given free will that so many people have given up in the name of safety.
Thank You Father Mike for keeping it “Real”
💗✝️🤗🙏🤗✝️💗
God bless and keep you Father Mike for everything you do for the glory of God in Jesus’ name
Beautifully said! I love it when Priests use current events in their sermons. That's very rare. Thankyou Father Mike!....God Bless you!
Thank you so much, Father. Please do more “current events” once in a while. Bles you.
Right? It wouldn't hurt anything if he did. Good one!
Wow ty Fr Mike ❤️ This Hope everyone sees it 🙏🏼 exactly what we need to know🙏🏼 you’re Emanating His Way GBU🕊🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼✌️🦋
Fr Mike This was an amazing video, and a profound perspective of our world. Thank you for sharing as this has allowed me to have larger discussions with non-catholics about whats going on in the world. It has also helped me to not stress about what is out of our control. Pray more worry less, god bless you for this talk!
Thank you Father Mike. I dont have anything to add because you said it perfectly. God bless you and we pray for Gods peace to the entire world.
thank you father mike. i struggle with righteous indignation, how to resond to an obvious breakin of the rules. i secretly admire will smith but with a reservation that it probaly was not how Jesus would have responded. It all comes back to how to speak the truth with love. as a gun bearin catholic in a high crime residence i dont wanna kill any body. i find myself almost wishin that these drug dealing nieghbors would assault a woman that would require deadly force on my behalf and know that this is not how a christian should frame himself. it is thru prayer i find consolation and relief. God Bless.
Your willingness to defend another by deadly force as a last resort is OK. That’s a warrior, protector mindset. The desire to take a life is not. I sympathize with your thought process. I know ammunition is expensive but hope you can visit a range and safely practice. IF…IF the worse case scenario arises, your neighbors need you to be accurate. Accuracy prevents innocents from harm. God bless.
I know you don't love doing this sort of guidance but we really need it especially in today's world
Father Mike, thank you so much. You always shift my perspective and inspire me to really become the best version of myself. "Where can I serve when people don't follow the rules?"
Matthew 23
9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.
@@alexanderbrown2717 Didn't you call your father, father? Be careful when contextualizing things.
@@alexanderbrown2717, Jesus was stating make no person, no teacher, no family member, your God.
This is what happens when scripture is taken out of context to justify Christians who’ve fallen away from the one, true Christian Church.
I would know, I left Protestantism and converted to RCC.
I was taught to memorize snippets of scripture, taken out of context, then I came to the Catholic Church for the truth and I stay for my Lord Jesus, truly present, in body, blood, soul, and divinity.
I pray the Holy Spirit leads you on a path to truth, love, and mercy.
Thanks, Fr. Schmitz. It reminds me to prioritize --- it reminds me that God's "opinion" of us is more important, even as I understand that the other person is entitled to have their own opinions about anything, including about us. Thanks for the reminder that it is from God that we find stability. I also like that you invite us to be honest with ourselves in asking, "was there any truth to the other person's comment?" Every moment is a learning moment, keeping in mind that a partial truth doesn't mean that everything that person says is true.
I so appreciate your words and your guidance, and that your voice "reaches" far and wide. God bless you!
How fragile life scares me. One day everyone I know will die. God forbid anyone I love dies tragically. I feel like I take a lot of things for granted. I often feel like I know nothing about real life because I lived in a middle-class neighborhood in the suburbs.
I used to feel like this too because I’ve barely lived through any tragedies compared to what some people have went through. But I’ve learned that that doesn’t matter. Do all things for God, no matter how easy or difficult your life gets. When the day comes that tragedies or challenges enter your life, lean into God's love and ask for His grace to bear whatever you’re going through. It won’t be easy, but you’ll make it through.
@@fuschiarose4797 I'm scared of tragedies, freak accidents, etc. I wish I could pray that these never happen
@@IONov990 Believe me, I used to be too. I used to cry almost daily because I was afraid something horrible would happen soon. But you know what? Since then, there were only a few little tragedies that have happened, and I got through them with God's grace. What I lost was so much time worrying. If instead I took a deep breath, prayed, cried only for a little while (Crying is actually good for you once in a while!), but then put those worries in God's hands, I could’ve been so much more productive with my time. For example, one thing I used to worry about A LOT was my mom unexpectedly passing away. If instead of crying and worrying about it for endless hours, I could’ve spent more time WITH her and made more happy memories. You know what? It’s over 10 years later and she’s still alive and in good health. I had nothing to worry about. But say if she did pass away, worrying about it limits the quality time I’ve had with her. And that would’ve been a regret of mine.
It will take a lot of time, effort, and practice to become less scared about these things. Keep praying about it. And remember, this world isn’t our permanent home. Someday we'll all be united in heaven with absolutely nothing to worry about.
God bless you Father Mike! You are so precious, truthful, compassionate & inspirational.
Thank you!
Thank you sincerely father Mike Court saying what the rest of us feel in our hearts and minds!
Sorry for the voice text
Always thankful for Fr. Mike and Ascension. Much love. We are praying for you. Godbless
I ❤️ Father Mike! Yes please more content on current events.
As shepherds go, you are on my top 10 list. Practical spiritual help in an impractical world… The Holy Spirit lives in you… thank you for saying your YES to God Fr. Mike… 🙏🏻
It's like when people of African descent are being denied transport out of Ukraine. Blatant racism in a humanitarian crisis😢 I agree with Fr. Mike, our faith is tried and tested when life is unstable and the rules are being broken
@Buddy Bruh its actual racism though
@@Dante-pb4dy they were university students. Grow up and enter the 21st century.
God bless you, Father.
Thank you Fr. Mike! You have gift for putting things in context.
Fr Mike, Unfortunately, we live in a world where everyone does NOT do their part....a world where God is not the most important being to all. It's a daily challenge. Simple as doves and clever as serpents....thank you for promoting our faith and God.
“We are good but broken” blessings father for the message God gives us individually through your talks.
Good Sunday ALL...I am trying g to remind myself daily to be positive and keep my words positive. It gets hard when I see Will Smith and Putin etc...actions. I have been praying that Putin's hurt and heart heals. I Pray for Peace and Love to ALL 🙏💜🌍
As a military leader I have to understand how people perform under combat conditions. From my studies and from what I have seen, people in Western industrialized cultured are arrogant in their sense of moral self. They have not been confronted with situations of survival. During the Vietnam War a company of soldiers who were a fair representation of the demography of the US at that time were ordered to kill women and children (an illegal order) More than 70% complied. Were these "evil" men. Well the statistics say they were quite ordinary. The difference was the situation. Ordinary people are capable of very evil things when the rules change. Look at how many women are having abortions. Look at the amount of divorce we have. In order to not be the 70% when the rules change you need a strong sense of self and the power of the holy spirit inside you.
That means we should stop being sheep and don't believe anything society and organisations tell us because they all have hidden interests. I follow the divine consciousness inside me. I know exactly when I do wrong because She tells me immediately and I feel remorse and shame. We must encourage people to look inside their hearts where divine consciousness resides and let her guide us instead of men of the world.
@@dhanyrafael I agree with your thoughts that are reflected in the bible that we should not put our faith in any man or prince. But, from a Christian and Catholic perspective we believe that we are all fallen creatures. We cannot have 100% faith in our own abilities to resist sin especially in an era like ours that glorifies and encourages sinful and selfish behavior. We must continue to grow our knowledge and understanding of morality and what God wants us to do. But we also must invite in the w
Holy Spirit to give us strength when the flesh is weak. If we solely rely on ourselves, we will fall.
My answer! Thank you Father Mike!
I love how you thread god ‘s word into current events. Amazing how many lives you are touching and making a difference. God bless
This should be on every news cast in the US!! QUIT Whining America, be thankful and serve!