The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Day 162: Rehoboam Seeks Counsel (2023)

11 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains why it's better to seek counsel from those who don't necessarily always agree with us, using the experience of Rehobo′am as an exa...

Introduction to the Divided Kingdom (with Jeff Cavins) - 2023

11 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to the Divided Kingdom period! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to explain the critical information needed to understand the rest of our biblical re...

Day 161: The Crucifixion of Christ (2023)

10 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike finishes the gospel of Mark by reflecting on the death and resurrection of Christ. He also encourages us to reflect on the redemption of our ...

Day 160: Jesus Warns the People (2023)

09 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike guides us through Jesus' warning of persecution to the people of Israel as we near the end of Mark's Gospel. He also touches on how Jesus' be...

Day 159: Bearing Fruit (2023)

08 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we read about Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, Fr. Mike breaks down Jesus' interactions with his disciples and the sadducees, and his reaction to the w...

Day 158: The Reality of Sin (2023)

07 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike highlights the reality of sin and our capacity to choose hell as we read about Jesus' teachings on temptations, divorce, and wealth. Jesus' t...

Day 157: Following Jesus (2023)

06 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike emphasizes that following Jesus as his disciples requires remarkable humility, faith, purity of heart, and courage. Today's readings are Mark...

Day 156: Jesus Casts Out Demons (2023)

05 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we continue to read about Jesus' ministry, Fr. Mike focuses today on Jesus' power to cast out demons and reminds us that there is an ongoing spirit...

Day 155: Jesus is Lord (2023)

04 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today we read about Jesus' teachings and miracles that confirm his identity as Lord. Fr. Mike emphasizes the divinity of Jesus revealed in his actions...

Day 154: The Baptism of Jesus (2023)

03 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we begin reading the Gospel of Mark, Fr. Mike points out several amazing details about the baptism of Jesus, as well as some important points about...

Messianic Checkpoint: The Gospel of Mark (with Jeff Cavins) -2023

03 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to the second Messianic Checkpoint! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to introduce the Gospel of Mark and discuss how this short Gospel helps us unde...

Day 153: The Decline of Solomon (2023)

02 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today, as we hear about the decline of Solomon, Fr. Mike points out how the consequences of our decisions can have ramifications far beyond ourselves....

Day 152: Being Forgotten (2023)

01 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reminds us that, eventually, all of us will be forgotten by the world. He encourages us to keep our eyes fixed on heaven, focusing on surrend...

Day 151: Wisdom and Folly (2023)

31 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike delves deeper into the lessons Ecclesiastes teaches us today about living wisely by keeping the end in mind, enjoying the present moment, and...

Day 150: The Dedication of the Temple (2023)

30 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains the details of Solomon's dedication of the Temple, and the power of God's presence dwelling in it. In Ecclesiastes, we continue to l...

Day 149: All Is Vanity (2023)

29 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today we begin reading the book of Ecclesiastes! Fr. Mike helps us understand the central theme of this book of wisdom literature- the meaning of life...

Day 148: Solomon's Wealth (2023)

28 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains the purpose behind the beauty and extravagance of the Temple Solomon built for the Lord. On the other hand, he also points out the i...

Day 147: Temple Worship (2023)

27 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reinforces the power of God's presence in the Temple, and the importance of worshipping God the way he desires to be worshipped. We also begi...

Day 146: The Universal Church (2023)

26 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reveals Solomon's plan of leadership, and how he is aiming to unite the people. He also foreshadows the importance of the temple as a place w...

Day 145: Solomon Builds the Temple (2023)

25 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reads the story of Solomon's greatest action as king: building a temple for the Lord, showing us how important it is to give glory to the Lor...

Day 144: David's Last Words (2023)

24 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike looks into David's last words to his son Solomon and explains why it could have been hard for him to take David's advice. He also points out ...

Day 143: Solomon Asks for Wisdom (2023)

23 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike starts to unpack the character of Solomon and explains how we can see the beginning of his downfall in today's readings. Although Solomon has...

Day 142: Whole and Joyful Hearts (2023)

22 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike uses the readings today to ask the question, how can we love the Lord joyfully, and with our whole hearts? In scripture today we see David su...

Day 141: The Life of David (2023)

21 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike touches on one of his favorite bible stories about David's mighty men and discusses his attitude in old age. At the end of his life, David ch...

Day 140: David's Prayer of Thanksgiving (2023)

20 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reflects on the significance behind David's prayer of thanksgiving at the end of his life. There's something so moving about David's gratitud...

Day 139: Reparation to the Gibeonites (2023)

19 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In today's readings, Fr. Mike highlights David's humility in two instances: when David asked the Gibeonites how he could repair their relationship aft...

Day 138: The Effect of Sin on Others (2023)

18 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike points out how violence begets violence in the reading from 2 Samuel, and shows us how the sins we commit extend much further than ourselves....

Day 137: David Mourns Absalom (2023)

17 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for childr...

Day 136: Absalom Is Defeated (2023)

16 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today, we hear about the downfall of Absalom, and how David reacts to the news of his death. In Chronicles, we read about David changing some of the r...

Day 135: The Counsel of Hushai (2023)

15 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains the events of today's readings, breaking down Hushai's advice to Absalom, David's warning and charge of Solomon, and the theme of ce...

Day 134: Devastating Effects of Sin (2023)

14 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike talks about the horrible things that can happen when we turn away from God and stop asking him "what's the next step?" In today's readings we...

Day 133: Persevering in Trust (2023)

13 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike focuses on trust today, specifically trusting God in difficult times. Like David, we need to learn to trust God in the midst of the battle, n...

Day 132: David and Absalom (2023)

12 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reflects on the story of David and Absalom, and points out the lack of forgiveness and repentance on both men's part. God forgives us no matt...

Day 131: Hope for the Future (2023)

11 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike preaches hope for the future of those with wounded hearts as we read the stories of Tamar, Amnon, and David. No matter what's in your past - ...

Day 130: Nathan Condemns David (2023)

10 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike touches on the sins of David, and how we can see ourselves in these fallen characters in scripture. God desires a relationship with us free f...

Day 129: David Commits Adultery (2023)

09 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike breaks down David's tragic downfall as he commits adultery with Bathsheba and kills her husband, Uriah the Hittite. We learn that David's roa...

Day 128: Mighty Men of Valor (2023)

08 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we continue to read about how King David expands his kingdom, Fr. Mike points out the mighty men of valor, who were men of great courage, honor and...

Day 127: Kindness for the House of Saul (2023)

07 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike draws our attention to David's kindness towards the house of Saul, including Jonathan's lame son Mephibosheth. We learn that even though Saul...

Day 126: David's Victories (2023)

06 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike emphasizes how King David's victories in battle are part of his calling to establish Israel as a kingdom. He also reminds us that the recapit...

Day 125: Covenant with David (2023)

05 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike highlights the moment God makes a covenant with David, promising him an everlasting dynasty, but reserving the building of the Temple to Davi...

Day 124: King David Rules (2023)

04 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today we read about the moment David is made king over all Israel. Fr. Mike reveals that as David begins his rule, he has both strengths and weaknesse...

Day 123: The Death of Ish-bosheth (2023)

03 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike highlights the importance of David's reaction to the death of Ish-bosheth, Saul's son. Today we read 2 Samuel 4, 1 Chronicles 5-6, and Psalm ...

Day 122: Abner Is Killed (2023)

02 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In today's readings, we hear about the death of Abner, and Fr. Mike points out how David publicly mourns Abner, and instructs his people to do the sam...

Day 121: Cycle of Violence (2023)

01 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike talks about how revenge and violence can become a cycle that doesn't end until someone chooses to end it. He also points out how the genealog...

Day 120: David Mourns Saul (2023)

30 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today we begin two new books as we read 2 Samuel 1, 1 Chronicles 1, and Psalm 13. Fr. Mike shows us how nothing in scripture is wasted space, and also...

Day 119: David's Wisdom (2023)

29 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In the last chapters of 1 Samuel, Fr. Mike focuses on David's wisdom in battle through his prayer and ability to unite the people of Israel. He also t...

Day 118: King Saul Despairs (2023)

28 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reflects on King Saul's despair in the face of trial, and how he seeks other means of comfort when he feels like God has abandoned him. God n...

Day 117: Reverence and Faithfulness

27 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reveals how David exemplifies the virtues of reverence and faithfulness. David walks both as a man of faith and as a fallen son of God, but w...

Day 116: David and Abigail (2023)

26 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reflects on the relationship between David and Abigail, and how the Lord calls David to be a better man through Abigail. Where has God put th...

Day 115: King Saul is Spared (2023)

25 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike uses King Saul as an example that God does not unchoose those he has chosen, and never loses faith in us. Even if we feel someone is in power...

Day 114: David Saves Keilah (2023)

24 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explores the actions of David before saving the city of Keilah, and how he sets an example for us while discerning God's will. He also points...

Day 113: Broken Trust (2023)

23 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In today's readings, we learn how Doeg the Edomite betrayed David, the priests, and the Lord. Fr. Mike explains that betrayal is painful because our h...

Day 112: True Friendship (2023)

22 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

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 kind...

Day 111: Saul Tries to Kill David (2023)

21 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike contrasts Jonathan's brotherly friendship with David, and Saul's bitterness and envy towards David. We also learn from Psalm 59 that David st...

Day 110: David and Goliath (2023)

20 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today we read the epic story of how David defeats Goliath, a giant Philistine warrior. Fr. Mike points out that David's heroic courage in this battle ...

Day 109: A Heart of Obedience (2023)

19 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we continue to read about Saul's vanity and disobedience, Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of the virtue of obedience in our relationship with Go...

Day 108: Saul's Vanity (2023)

18 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike highlights Saul's brokenness and vanity as he makes an unlawful sacrifice and a rash oath in order to save Israel in the midst of war. Today'...

Day 107: Samuel's Speech (2023)

17 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we continue reading from 1 Samuel, Fr. Mike points out how God gave the people a king like they wanted, even though it was not part of his plan. Th...

Introduction to the Royal Kingdom (with Jeff Cavins) (2023)

16 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to the Royal Kingdom period! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to set the scene for this time period. They review the major players, and why the peop...

Day 106: Saul Is Chosen (2023)

16 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we begin the Royal Kingdom period, we hear about the first king of Israel, Saul. We discover that though Saul looks like a fearless warrior, he has...

Day 105: It Is Finished (2023)

15 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In our final reading from the Gospel of John, we hear about the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Fr. Mike points out the connection betw...

Day 104: The Priestly Prayer of Jesus (2023)

14 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reflects on the prayer of Jesus before his sacrifice, where he not only prays for all his disciples but for us as well. We also dive into Chr...

Day 103: Judas' Secrecy (2023)

13 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike points out the secrecy in Judas' life, and highlights Jesus' words of conviction to the disciples before his death on the cross. He also expl...

Day 102: The Death of Lazarus (2023)

12 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike recalls the death of Lazarus, and how Jesus not only allowed himself to be broken by the sorrow that breaks us but also how he took that hope...

Day 101: Signs and Wonders (2023)

11 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains how the signs and wonders Jesus demonstrates in the Gospel point to the truth of his identity. He also touches on Proverbs 5, especi...

Day 100: This Is My Body (2023)

10 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today we read about Jesus' powerful teaching about the Eucharist. Fr. Mike invites us to believe that the Eucharist is truly the Body, Blood, Soul, an...

Day 99: The Word Became Flesh (2023)

09 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today we begin reading the Gospel of John! Fr. Mike emphasizes the significance of Jesus' divinity, and explains how the story of salvation culminates...

Messianic Checkpoint: The Gospel of John (2023)

09 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

You've made it to the first Messianic Checkpoint! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to introduce the Gospel of John. They discuss the structure of this Gospe...

Day 98: Israel Asks for a King (2023)

08 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike draws our attention to Samuel's sons who turned away from God as they ruled over Israel and how the people of Israel rejected God from being ...

Day 97: Samuel's Prophecy (2023)

07 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike zeroes in on Samuel's dramatic prophecy and the tragic moment when the Philistines capture of the Ark of God. We learn that God is mighty and...

Day 96: Hannah's Prayer (2023)

06 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we begin to read the first book of Samuel, Fr. Mike highlights the miraculous birth of Samuel and how Hannah's deep longing for a son never became ...

Day 95: The Sin of Benjamin (2023)

05 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we conclude the book of Judges, we hear about the horrifying events that occurred among the tribes of Israel in the days when "every man did what w...

Day 94: Samson and Delilah (2023)

04 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today we follow two stories of betrayal with Samson and Delilah and Micah and the Levite. Fr. Mike also explains why Judges is the best example of how...

Day 93: Strengths and Weaknesses (2023)

03 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today, Fr. Mike begins to read Samson's story and points out that Samson, despite his physical strength, has a lot of weaknesses. The readings are Jud...

Day 92: Jephthah's Vow (2023)

02 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today's readings are Judges 9-11, Ruth 4, and Psalm 137. In the reading from Judges, we hear about the rise and fall of Abimelech, as well as the misg...

Day 91: Gideon's Story (2023)

01 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In today's reading from Judges, Fr. Mike talk about Gideon's story, and points out how the people began to worship the object Gideon had created to gl...

Day 90: Ruth and Boaz (2023)

31 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike highlights the life of Ruth, and what seems to be the first day of hope she's had in a long time. Sometimes it takes a long time to catch a g...

Day 89: Israel's Cycle of Disobedience (2023)

30 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to the book of Judges! Fr. Mike foreshadows the events of Judges, and the cycle of disobedience we'll continue to see Israel go through. He al...

Day 88: Joshua's Last Words to Israel (2023)

29 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike focuses on the last words Joshua speaks to the people of Israel, and how he calls them to choose the Lord above all other things. We all have...

Day 87: God Keeps His Promises (2023)

28 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reminds us that God keeps his promises, even if it takes a little longer than we thought. Just like the people of Israel received everything ...

Day 86: The Real Presence of God (2023)

27 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reminds us that God is present with us in every step of our journey, even the seemingly mundane aspects. He also encourages us to not be disc...

Day 85: Fighting for Each Other (2023)

26 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we read about Joshua leading Israel into battle, Fr. Mike helps us comprehend the meaning behind all the destruction God commands. He emphasizes th...

Day 84: The Sun Stands Still (2023)

25 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike offers us different ways we can interpret the miracle of the sun standing still in Joshua 10, and also reminds us that God always desires uni...

Day 83: The Gibeonite Trickery (2023)

24 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike expands on the significance of establishing a covenant relationship, and how the trickery of the Gibeonites can represent the desire to enter...

Day 82: The Valley of Achor (2023)

23 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains the meaning of circumcision for Israel's relationship with God. He also underscore the gravity of Achan's sin, and how the Valley of...

Day 81: Israel Crosses the Jordan (2023)

22 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we begin our reading of the book Joshua, Fr. Mike draws our attention to God's power as he parts the waters of the Jordan river, allowing the Israe...

Introduction to Conquest & Judges (with Jeff Cavins) - 2023

22 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Congratulations on completing the Desert Wanderings period! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to introduce the fifth biblical period, Conquest and Judges. Th...

Day 80: Cities of Refuge (2023)

21 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we finish our journey through the Desert Wanderings, Fr. Mike zeroes in on the purpose of cities of refuge for the Israelites and the strong bond o...

Day 79: Psalms of Ascent (2023)

20 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Today, Fr. Mike points out how the boundaries of the land of Canaan in Numbers remind us that the Promised Land is not a nice idea, but a real tangibl...

Day 78: The Song of Moses (2023)

19 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In today's readings, we trace the route of the Israelites in Numbers and hear the song of Moses in Deuteronomy. Fr. Mike reflects on a hard lesson fro...

Day 77: God Is Faithful (2023)

18 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike points out why it's important that the tribes of Reuben and Gad agree to fight in Numbers 32 and also reflects on how God knows that his peop...

Day 76: War Against Midian (2023)

17 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike breaks down the battle against Midian and explains why God would allow destruction and warfare that can seem brutal. He also highlights how w...

Day 75: The Keeping of Vows (2023)

16 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike gives us some background around the feast days of the Old Testament and emphasizes the importance of vows, which are serious promises made wi...

Day 74: Joshua Appointed (2023)

15 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike discusses the inheritance given to Zelophehad's daughters. He also highlights the journey of Joshua as Moses' successor, and how Christ is th...

Day 73: Inheritance of Land (2023)

14 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains why it was important to take a census at different points of the people of Israel in the Old Testament. We also learn that the Tribe...

Day 72: The Plains of Moab (2023)

13 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike describes the sinful events of Israel in Moab, and why God chooses to bless the Israelites through Balaam in spite of their sin. Today's read...

Day 71: The Source of the Law (2023)

12 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike shares more details surrounding the Old Testament laws, including why God would give us these laws in the first place. Today's readings are N...

Day 70: The Offense of Balaam (2023)

11 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike dives into the character of Balaam, and why his offense was so treacherous towards his relationship with God. Today's readings are Numbers 22...

Day 69: The Bronze Serpent (2023)

10 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains how the bronze serpent is a prefiguration of Jesus on the Cross. We also continue to learn how God's laws in Deuteronomy redefine t...

Day 68: The Waters of Meribah (2023)

09 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike describes the miracle of the waters of Meribah that God performs for his people in the wilderness. He also explains the logic behind the laws...