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
Nov 17, 2025 • 27min
Day 321: Jesus' Prayer in the Garden (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the profound nature of prayer, emphasizing that Jesus prayed not for requests, but for closeness with God. The poignant moments in Gethsemane demonstrate honesty and trust in prayer. The narrative delves into Jesus' trial, crucifixion, and the significance of his last words on the cross. Insights on the road to Emmaus reveal how the Eucharist restores what was lost. Finally, listeners are encouraged to see how Jesus fulfills scripture and to deepen their personal prayer life.
7 snips
Nov 16, 2025 • 24min
Day 320: Peter's Denial Foretold (2025)
Explore the profound lessons from the widow's offering, revealing that it's the heart behind the gift that matters most. Fr. Mike discusses the prophecy of Peter's denial, highlighting Jesus' unwavering support through our struggles. He emphasizes the importance of servant leadership and humility in faith, reminding us of the strength found in vulnerability. The conversation wraps up with a message of hope after failure, reassuring listeners of God's mercy and the opportunity to uplift others.
7 snips
Nov 15, 2025 • 24min
Day 319: Come, Follow Me (2025)
Fr. Mike draws powerful contrasts between the rich young man and Zacchaeus, emphasizing the importance of wholeheartedly following Christ. He highlights the significance of humility, contrasting the self-righteous Pharisee with a humble tax collector. The stories of Jesus healing the blind beggar and the Samaritan leper illustrate the theme of gratitude and mercy. Fr. Mike reflects on radical discipleship, the kingdom of God, and Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem, encouraging listeners to embrace faith like a child's and to respond to God's call.
7 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 34min
Day 318: The Narrow Gate, the Lost Sheep, and the Prodigal Son (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the challenging notion that many might choose hell over heaven, sparking a call to strive for the narrow gate. He explores the heartwarming parables of the Lost Sheep and the Prodigal Son, illustrating God's relentless pursuit and deep compassion. The discussion also touches on the cost of discipleship and the joy in heaven over one sinner's repentance. Through poignant insights, he emphasizes the importance of living in a relationship with God rather than a mere checklist of duties.
8 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 27min
Day 317: Persistence in Prayer (2025)
Fr. Mike highlights the importance of persistence in prayer, urging listeners to be shameless in their requests to God. He delves into the meaning of challenging passages, like the return of an unclean spirit and Jesus’ message of division in families. With insights on fearing God over earthly threats, he encourages trust in divine provision rather than anxiety over wealth. The discussion touches on the significance of spiritual clarity and the need to fill one's life with virtue after being delivered from sin.
5 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 24min
Day 316: Absolute Surrender (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the call for absolute surrender to God, emphasizing the importance of renouncing personal claims. He shares the story of Mary and Martha, highlighting how anxiety can choke spiritual life. The discussion includes the mission of the twelve, the miracle of the loaves, and Jesus' transfiguration. A reflection on true greatness through humility reveals powerful insights on discipleship. The podcast wraps up with thoughts on joy in salvation and a plea to lay aside worries for a deeper faith.
18 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 29min
Day 315: The Virtue of Mercy (2025)
Fr. Mike reflects on the beauty of God's mercy and our call to embody it despite our flaws. He shares powerful miracles, highlighting Jesus' compassion, such as the healing of a widow's son and the restoration of Jairus' daughter. The discussion includes the significance of loving one's enemies and the importance of humility, echoing through the examples of the centurion and John the Baptist. Fr. Mike encourages listeners to embrace their baptismal grace and live out their faith through persistent prayer.
20 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 28min
Day 314: My Beloved Son (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into the Baptism of Jesus, connecting it to the Israelites' journey into the Promised Land. He highlights the humility of the Jordan River, the lowest place on Earth. The proclamation of Jesus as God's beloved Son emphasizes our own adoption as children of God through baptism. The discussion moves to Jesus' responses to temptation in the wilderness and his powerful ministry, including healings and calls to discipleship, showcasing his compassion and authority. The reflections on fasting and self-control tie back to spiritual growth.
14 snips
Nov 9, 2025 • 26min
Day 313: The Ark of the New Covenant (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the significance of Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant. He contrasts her faith-filled question to the angel Gabriel with Zechariah's doubt. The podcast explores the joyous visit between Mary and Elizabeth, marked by the leaping of the unborn John. Fr. Mike also discusses the prophetic moments surrounding Jesus' birth and highlights Mary as God's dwelling among His people. Additionally, he touches on themes of humility in Mary and Joseph's offering at the temple.
20 snips
Nov 9, 2025 • 34min
Messianic Checkpoint: The Gospel of Luke (with Jeff Cavins) (2025)
Join Catholic Bible teacher Jeff Cavins, known for the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, as he explores the unique themes of the Gospel of Luke. Discover Luke's portrayal of Jesus' humanity and his inclusive message that embraces outsiders. Cavins highlights the distinct role of women in Jesus' ministry, shares insights on prayer, and emphasizes the cost of discipleship. The discussion also reveals how Luke’s account of the Ascension connects to the Acts of the Apostles, encouraging listeners to engage deeply with these scriptures.
