

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

19 snips
Apr 11, 2025 • 26min
Day 101: Signs and Wonders (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into the miraculous signs of Jesus and their significance in revealing His true identity. He discusses the tension at the Feast of Tabernacles, where beliefs clash with societal pressures. The healing of a blind man serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual sight versus disbelief. Through biblical reflections, discipline in character is emphasized, urging listeners to align with individuals of integrity. Ultimately, the profound impact of Jesus' miracles on faith is highlighted, encouraging a deeper understanding of scripture.

23 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 32min
Day 100: This Is My Body (2025)
In this engaging discussion, listeners dive into Jesus' pivotal teachings on the Eucharist, emphasizing the belief that it embodies His true presence. The conversation highlights transformative encounters, including the miracle of the feeding of the 5,000, and the tension with authorities over His claims. Key themes include the necessity of faith for understanding Jesus as the 'bread of life' and the profound significance of spiritual nourishment. The episode encourages believers to maintain trust in Christ's presence in the Eucharist, despite difficult teachings.

24 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 25min
Day 99: The Word Became Flesh (2025)
Today marks the transition to the Gospel of John, a pivotal moment in the journey through Scripture. Fr. Mike highlights the dual nature of Jesus as both divine and human. Key miracles, including the wedding at Cana, showcase His power and purpose. A transformative discussion with Nicodemus underscores the necessity of spiritual rebirth. The reflection on God's covenant love emphasizes the broader implications for humanity as they explore profound themes in John's Gospel.

28 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 21min
Messianic Checkpoint: The Gospel of John (2025)
Jeff Cavins, a Catholic Bible scholar and author, joins Fr. Mike to delve into the unique aspects of the Gospel of John. They explore how this Gospel goes beyond recounting Jesus’ actions, focusing instead on His divine identity. Discussion highlights the relationship between belief and obedience, emphasizing significant 'I am' statements. Cavins also illuminates the symbolism behind the 153 fish catch, reflecting themes of redemption. The themes of disqualification and restoration remind listeners that God's love embraces everyone, no matter their past.

13 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 22min
Day 98: Israel Asks for a King (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into Israel's yearning for a human king, illustrating a profound moment when people chose earthly leadership over divine guidance. He reflects on Samuel's sons' failings and their impact on faith. The return of the Ark of the Covenant sparks celebration, but also highlights the Israelites' troubling shift towards monarchy. A heartfelt prayer from David underscores God's mercy amidst these challenges. The podcast explores faith's struggles and the complex relationship between leadership and divine trust.

22 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 20min
Day 97: Samuel's Prophecy (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into Samuel's powerful calling and the disastrous capture of the Ark by the Philistines. The loss of the Ark marks a profound moment for Israel, symbolized by the birth of Ichabod, highlighting the absence of divine presence. Panic ensues in Ekron as they confront the ark's arrival, revealing the fear of God's might. Amid the turmoil, Psalm 150 prompts a powerful shift toward celebration and worship, contrasting true faith with the Israelites' past missteps.

21 snips
Apr 6, 2025 • 24min
Day 96: Hannah's Prayer (2025)
In this engaging discussion, Hannah's heartfelt prayer for a child showcases her unwavering faith and deep devotion. The podcast highlights the miraculous birth of Samuel, emphasizing themes of faith, humility, and divine justice. Listeners learn about the contrast between Hannah's righteousness and the failures of Eli's sons, shedding light on the significance of honoring God in all aspects of life. This exploration transitions from the era of Judges to the impactful story of Samuel.

22 snips
Apr 5, 2025 • 25min
Day 95: The Sin of Benjamin (2025)
The podcast explores the dark events in the Book of Judges, revealing a tragic tale of violence and moral decay among the tribes of Israel. A Levite and his concubine face devastating betrayal, highlighting the consequences of straying from divine law. Themes of relativism and brokenness resonate, drawing parallels to modern society's struggles with morality. The discussion emphasizes the need for redemption through faith as the narrative prepares to transition to the next chapters of biblical history.

27 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 24min
Day 94: Samson and Delilah (2025)
The podcast dives into the dramatic tales of betrayal involving Samson and Delilah, as well as Micah and the Levite. Listeners reflect on how these narratives highlight the moral complexities and consequences of broken trust. Fr. Mike explains how the Book of Judges showcases God’s ability to work through flawed individuals. The intense downfall of Samson is examined, portraying a story of vulnerability, sacrifice, and redemption, reminding us of the fine line between divine purpose and personal desire.

10 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 21min
Day 93: Strengths and Weaknesses (2025)
Today’s discussion dives into the duality of strength and weakness, using Samson's story as a captivating example. It explores the tribal conflicts in Israel and the significant impact of faith during struggles. Reflections highlight the miraculous birth of Samson and the relevance of the Nazirite vow. The episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal strengths while acknowledging weaknesses, urging listeners to seek divine support for healing. Along the way, biblical narratives resonate with contemporary challenges, creating a meaningful connection for all.