The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Ascension
In The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz walks you through the entire Bible in 365 episodes, providing commentary, reflection, and prayer along the way.
Unlike any other Bible podcast, Ascension’s Bible in a Year podcast follows a reading plan inspired by The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, a ground-breaking approach to understanding salvation history developed by renowned Catholic Bible scholar Jeff Cavins. For each period in the timeline, Jeff will join Fr. Mike for a special episode that will help you understand the context of each reading.
With this podcast, you won’t just read the Bible in a year … you’ll finally understand how all the pieces of the Bible fit together to tell an amazing story that continues in your life today!
Listen and…
Read the ENTIRE Bible
Feel more confident about your understanding of Scripture
Experience the transformative power of God’s Word in your daily life
Start seeing the world through the lens of Scripture
Each 20-25 minute episode includes:
Two to three scripture readings
A reflection from Fr. Mike Schmitz
A guided prayer to help you hear God’s voice in his Word
The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Unlike any other Bible podcast, Ascension’s Bible in a Year podcast follows a reading plan inspired by The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, a ground-breaking approach to understanding salvation history developed by renowned Catholic Bible scholar Jeff Cavins. For each period in the timeline, Jeff will join Fr. Mike for a special episode that will help you understand the context of each reading.
With this podcast, you won’t just read the Bible in a year … you’ll finally understand how all the pieces of the Bible fit together to tell an amazing story that continues in your life today!
Listen and…
Read the ENTIRE Bible
Feel more confident about your understanding of Scripture
Experience the transformative power of God’s Word in your daily life
Start seeing the world through the lens of Scripture
Each 20-25 minute episode includes:
Two to three scripture readings
A reflection from Fr. Mike Schmitz
A guided prayer to help you hear God’s voice in his Word
The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 20, 2025 • 25min
Day 293: Discipline Grounded in Love (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the vital distinction between discipline and destruction, highlighting that true discipline is rooted in love. He shares practical insights from Sirach and Proverbs on shaping children's character through correction. Listeners learn modern alternatives to traditional methods, like timeouts, and the significance of preventing behaviors that can create friction in parent-child relationships. Fr. Mike reassures those who have faced abusive discipline, emphasizing Scripture's call for nurturing love.
8 snips
Oct 19, 2025 • 26min
Day 292: The Power of Words (2025)
The podcast explores the unique storytelling in 1 Maccabees, focusing on political intrigue and shifting alliances. A deep dive into Sirach emphasizes the significant impact of our words, warning against gossip and urging wisdom in speech. Fr. Mike also discusses the importance of forgiveness and the need for careful consideration in lending and hospitality. The reflections highlight the contrast of 1 Maccabees with other biblical texts, showcasing how history can be presented without added commentary.
8 snips
Oct 18, 2025 • 27min
Day 291: The Rise of King Alexander (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the rise of Jonathan as high priest amid political intrigue. He details Alexander's tactical victory over Demetrius and highlights the significant alliance formed through Alexander's marriage to Cleopatra. The discussion extends to the moral lessons from Sirach, emphasizing the character of spouses applicable to everyone. Fr. Mike also warns against the dangers of pursuing wealth as outlined in Proverbs, offering deeper reflections on life's challenges.
10 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 25min
Day 290: Judas Maccabeus Dies (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the poignant tale of Judas Maccabeus' final battle and his death, emphasizing the emotional weight of facing internal enemies. He reflects on the challenges that arise when fellow Israelites stray from God's laws. The discussion extends to the tactical shifts in leadership as Jonathan steps up, and the heartbreak of betrayal within one's own community. Wisdom's role in daily life is highlighted through readings from Sirach and Proverbs, urging listeners to seek understanding amidst turmoil.
6 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 25min
Day 289: Wise Influences (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the shifting power dynamics as Rome's influence begins to overshadow the Jewish people. He highlights the wisdom from Sirach, stressing the importance of choosing companions and media that inspire spiritual growth. The discussion emphasizes the dangers of folly and the need for self-discipline in speech. Reflecting on the past alliance with Rome, Fr. Mike questions the absence of prophetic guidance during those times and reminds listeners about the visibility of sins, urging them to walk in truth.
11 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 24min
Day 288: Battling Against Gossip (2025)
Explore the vital role of wisdom in combating gossip and temptation. Fr. Mike highlights the historical context of the Jews' courageous battles, emphasizing prayer for guidance. He contrasts true wisdom with mere cleverness, advocating for prudence in speech and thoughts. The power of silence is praised, while practical advice warns against repeating harmful words. With a reflection on applying biblical principles to modern spiritual battles, this discussion inspires a journey towards virtue and thoughtful living.
7 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 28min
Day 287: Eleazar's Sacrifice (2025)
Fr. Mike discusses Eleazar's heroic sacrifice and the painful reality of family members straying from faith. He reflects on the political chaos following Alexander's rule and how broken peace terms led to conflict. Sirach provides insight into God’s justice, urging focus on wisdom and repentance. The tension between human frailty and divine mercy is explored, alongside practical advice on generosity and speech. Ultimately, there's a heartfelt call for prayer for those who might be lost, infusing the episode with hope and encouragement.
7 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 27min
Day 286: The Battle to Choose God (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the struggles of Judas Maccabeus and the quest for religious freedom, stressing the battle is over the right to worship God. He emphasizes the influence of virtuous friends for personal growth and the importance of choosing good over evil. The discussion includes reflections on how one's choices can lead to eternal consequences and the significance of self-discipline. Listeners are encouraged to embrace wisdom and seek a deeper commitment to faith.
12 snips
Oct 12, 2025 • 28min
Day 285: Story of Hanukkah (2025)
Explore the inspiring victory of Judas Maccabeus as he leads his people during the battles recounted in 1 Maccabees. Delve into the origins of Hanukkah and the deep significance behind its eight-day celebration. Fr. Mike reflects on the fleeting nature of fame, urging listeners to prioritize humility and divine wisdom over worldly accolades. Practical guidance from Sirach emphasizes thoughtful actions, discernment in relationships, and the importance of seeking God's providence.
Oct 11, 2025 • 27min
Day 284: Near Occasion of Sin (2025)
Fr. Mike discusses guidance from Proverbs and Sirach, emphasizing their relevance in daily life. He explores the early victories of Judas Maccabeus against overwhelming odds and highlights Israel's united prayerful response. The conversation turns to avoiding sin, with insights on steering clear of temptation and the importance of prudence in relationships. He underscores the significance of training children well and avoiding the pitfalls of debt. The reflections tie these teachings to the need for grace and wisdom in our lives.
