DeepSummary
In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz discusses the deep friendship between David and Jonathan from the book of 1 Samuel. He explains the different types of love described by the ancient Greeks, with friendship (philia) being one of the highest forms, transcending mere affection or desire. The bond between David and Jonathan is highlighted as a rare and precious example of virtuous friendship, where they pursue something greater than themselves.
Fr. Mike contrasts philia with other types of love, such as storge (affection) and eros (desire), which are more common but not as enduring as true friendship. He emphasizes that while eros can be powerful, it is also fickle and can disappear quickly, unlike the steadfast love between friends. Drawing from C.S. Lewis's writings, he notes that most people may only experience profound friendship once or twice in their lives, if at all.
The episode concludes with Fr. Mike praying for those who have not known true friendship or love, acknowledging their loneliness and affirming their belonging to the community of believers. He expresses gratitude for the gift of friendship and asks for prayers for those who walk through life alone.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- The biblical friendship between David and Jonathan exemplifies the ancient Greek concept of philia, a deep and virtuous bond rooted in shared pursuit of something greater than themselves.
- True friendship (philia) is a rare and precious form of love, transcending mere affection (storge) or desire (eros), and may only be experienced once or twice in a person's life.
- While eros (desire) can be powerful, it is also fickle and can disappear quickly, unlike the steadfast nature of philia.
- The different types of love - storge (affection), eros (desire), philia (friendship) - find their ultimate expression and connection in God's agape love, as exemplified by Jesus Christ.
- Those who have not experienced genuine friendship or love should be remembered and prayed for, acknowledging their loneliness and affirming their belonging to the community of believers.
- Expressions of gratitude for those who have exemplified true friendship and loyalty should be made, recognizing the rarity and value of such bonds.
- The concepts discussed in the episode draw from ancient Greek philosophy, as well as the writings of C.S. Lewis and Christian theology.
- The episode encourages listeners to appreciate and cherish the gift of true friendship, while also extending compassion to those who have not experienced it.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “We see a true friendship between Jonathan and David, and we just give you thanks for all the people in our lives, whether they be few or great in number, who have been loyal to us, have been faithful to us, that you've brought into our lives and have have cared for us or protected us, or even just done their best to be a friend.“ by Fr. Mike Schmitz
- “Cs Lewis points out that when. When it comes to Philia, when it comes to true friendship, that happens maybe once or twice in a person's life, if ever. If ever, because it's so rare, it's so powerful, it's so precious.“ by Fr. Mike Schmitz
- “You're our friend. My name is Father Mike. I cannot wait to see you tomorrow. God bless.“ by Fr. Mike Schmitz
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Episode Information
The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Ascension
4/21/24
Fr. Mike zeroes in on the deep friendship between Jonathan and David and the enduring power of their brotherly bond. He breaks down the different kinds of friendship according to Greek philosophy, and points out how true and virtuous friendship is so rare and special. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 20 and Psalm 142.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.