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

Day 128: Mighty Men of Valor (2024)

07 May 2024

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 (2024)

06 May 2024

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 (2024)

05 May 2024

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 (2024)

04 May 2024

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 (2024)

03 May 2024

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 (2024)

02 May 2024

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 (2024)

01 May 2024

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 (2024)

30 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

29 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

28 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

27 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

26 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

25 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

24 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

23 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

22 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

21 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

20 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

19 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

18 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

17 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

16 Apr 2024

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) (2024)

15 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

15 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

14 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

13 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

12 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

11 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

10 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

09 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

08 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

08 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

07 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

06 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

05 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

04 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

03 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

02 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

01 Apr 2024

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 (2024)

31 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

30 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

29 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

28 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

27 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

26 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

25 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

24 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

23 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

22 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

21 Mar 2024

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 Isra...

Introduction to Conquest & Judges (with Jeff Cavins) (2024)

21 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

20 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

19 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

18 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

17 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

16 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

15 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

14 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

13 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

12 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

11 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

10 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

09 Mar 2024

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 (2024)

08 Mar 2024

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 67: God's Justice and Refuge (2024)

07 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike breaks down God's divine judgement, and the refuge he offers to those who are faithful to him. Today's readings are Numbers 18, Deuteronomy 1...

Day 66: Forbidden Forms of Worship (2024)

06 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike discusses the forbidden forms of worship explained in Numbers 17, and why it's important for us to understand how God desired to be worshippe...

Day 65: Revolt Against Moses (2024)

05 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike dives into the recurring issue of the Israelites rebelling against God and remaining stuck in their past as we read about the revolt of Korah...

Day 64: Consequences of Sin (2024)

04 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains why God would give the Israelites such drastic consequences for their sin, and how it reveals his divine plan and infinite mercy. To...

Day 63: Israel's Rebellion (2024)

03 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In our reading of Numbers 14 today, Fr. Mike highlights how the rebellion of the Israelites which was marked by distrust and fear, will have consequen...

Day 62: Spies Sent to Canaan (2024)

02 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

As we read Numbers 12 and 13, Deuteronomy 11, and Psalm 94, Fr. Mike reflects on the conflict between Aaron, Miriam, and Moses and explains why Miriam...

Day 61: Complaining in the Desert (2024)

01 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike discusses how the Israelites complaining against God and believing they were better off in Egypt reflects our own inclination to be enslaved ...

Day 60: Intercessory Prayer (2024)

29 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike makes note of how the tribes of Israel travel with Judah (praise) leading the way, and makes note of how Moses intercedes for the people and ...

Day 59: Obligations to God (2024)

28 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

As we read Numbers 8-9, Deuteronomy 8, and Psalm 93, Fr. Mike reflects on how the Israelites were expected to celebrate Passover in all circumstances,...

Day 58: A Chosen People (2024)

27 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike breaks down the purpose of the various offerings during the dedication of the tabernacle. We are also reminded that the people of Israel are ...

Day 57: Hear, O Israel (2024)

26 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains the significance behind the Nazarite vow and the priestly blessing in Numbers 6. We also learn why the Great Command revealed in Deu...

Day 56: Jealous Husbands (2024)

25 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains how God elevates the dignity of women by providing new laws around husbands accusing their wives of unfaithfulness. Today we read fr...

Day 55: Obedience to God (2024)

24 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike underscores the importance of obeying God as he reads from Numbers 4 and Deuteronomy 4. We also read Psalm 88 and learn how it foreshadows th...

Day 54: The Tribe of Levi (2024)

23 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike clarifies some questions surrounding the Tribe of Levi and talks about what it means to be held to a higher standard as a leader in your comm...

Day 53: The Twelve Tribes of Israel (2024)

22 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike talks about the twelve tribes of Israel and explains why the book of Numbers introduces them based on the number of decedents they each had. ...

Introduction to Desert Wanderings (with Jeff Cavins) (2024)

21 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Congratulations, you've completed the Egypt & Exodus period and you've arrived at the Desert Wanderings ! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to provide us the...

Day 52: Israel Continues to Journey (2024)

21 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike kicks off our reading of the book of Numbers by explaining where Israel is at in their journey with the Lord, and how they are keeping him at...

Day 51: Israel's Worship of God (2024)

20 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

As we finish our reading of Exodus, Fr. Mike recaps the events of Israel and how God shaped his people in worship. Today's readings are Exodus 39-40, ...

Day 50: Sacrificial Offerings (2024)

19 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike encourages us to look at how we can increase our generosity to God and neighbor, inspired by the sacrificial offerings of Israel. Our reading...

Day 49: The Year of Jubilee (2024)

18 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains why God repeats some of his instructions for worship and lays out the purpose for the year of jubilee. The readings are Exodus 35-36...

Day 48: God's Presence (2024)

17 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reflects on God's presence to his people, and how that makes his chosen people distinct. Today's readings are Exodus 33-34, Leviticus 24, and...

Day 47: The Golden Calf (2024)

16 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today's reading from Exodus 32, Fr. Mike shows us how when we become uncertain, we immediate try to take control of the situation, and build up ido...

Day 46: Set Apart for God (2024)

15 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike points out how blessing something sets it apart for the purposes of God, and it is no longer meant for ordinary uses. So when we are filled w...

Day 45: Pray for Priests (2024)

14 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

As we read Exodus 29, Leviticus 21, and Psalm 119:121-176, Fr. Mike points out how God calls broken and imperfect men to his holy priesthood, and asks...

Day 44: Priestly Garments (2024)

13 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains how the holy garments for priests described in Exodus 27-28, are intentionally designed to glorify God and highlight his beauty. He ...

Day 43: The Ark of the Covenant (2024)

12 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike provides us with a mental picture of the ark of the covenant and reminds that the small details of worship matter as we read Exodus 25-26, Le...

Day 42: Moral Laws (2024)

11 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike breaks down the three types of law we find in Leviticus, including moral laws regarding sexuality. Today's readings are Exodus 24, Leviticus ...

Day 41: The Day of Atonement (2024)

10 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike reveals the parallels between the day of atonement and the sacrifice of the mass. We learn how the temple worship practices of the old testam...

Day 40: Laws of Justice (2024)

09 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today, Fr. Mike explains how God's heart is revealed through his commandments, and how we are all called to a life of justice, as we read from Exodus ...

Day 39: Slavery in the Old Testament (2024)

08 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike gives us the historical context around the commandments on slavery to help us better grasp the concept of slavery in the Old Testament. Today...

Day 38: The Ten Commandments (2024)

07 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains the meaning of a covenant with God, and how The Ten Commandments strengthen this relationship. Today's readings are Exodus 19-20, Le...

Day 37: The Mystical Works of God (2024)

06 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today's episode dives into the mystical works of God, and what our approach should be for explaining them in the natural world, as we read from Exodus...

Day 36: Manna from Heaven (2024)

05 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike talks about how God trains the Israelites to trust him in the wilderness, and how we can grow in our own faithfulness to the Lord. Today we r...

Day 35: Crossing the Red Sea (2024)

04 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fr. Mike explains how all the rules of worship in Leviticus 10 point to the reality that God is holy. We also continue journeying through Exodus 13-14...

Day 34: The Passover Instituted (2024)

03 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today we discover how the Passover foreshadows the sacrifice of Jesus and how the people of Israel are transformed by God in the readings from Exodus ...

Day 33: Locusts, Darkness, and Death of the Firstborn (2024)

02 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today's reading from Exodus 10-11, Fr. Mike explains how the ten plagues reveal that God is far greater than the Egyptian gods. We also discover mo...