

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

17 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 23min
Day 64: Consequences of Sin (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into the drastic consequences faced by the Israelites for their sins, offering deep insights into God's blend of justice and mercy. The discussion unfolds around dietary laws and their significance in maintaining community and obedience. Tithing is highlighted as a way to support one another, while a captivating Psalm encourages worship. The exploration of tangible reminders, like garment tassels, showcases how divine regulations foster a unique identity for the Israelites, ultimately revealing the depth of God's plan.

16 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 23min
Day 63: Israel's Rebellion (2025)
The discussion unveils the Israelites' rebellion as they express doubts and long for Egypt after hearing the spies' report about Canaan. Fr. Mike highlights the courage of Joshua and Caleb in inspiring hope amidst fear and disbelief. Listeners are prompted to reflect on their own faith challenges and the consequences of mistrust. The importance of divine laws and worship practices in the Promised Land is emphasized, along with a call to confront fears and embrace faith as they navigate their spiritual journeys.

9 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 21min
Day 62: Spies Sent to Canaan (2025)
This discussion dives deep into the conflict between Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, unpacking themes of jealousy and divine justice. The chilling punishment of Miriam highlights the weight of trust in God. As spies survey Canaan, fear begins to rise among the people, yet Caleb stands firm in faith, reminding everyone of God's promises. The importance of teaching future generations about obedience is emphasized, alongside a call to remember God's faithfulness through physical reminders and communal prayer.

10 snips
Mar 2, 2025 • 20min
Day 61: Complaining in the Desert (2025)
Fr. Mike examines the Israelites' complaints about life in the desert, revealing their longing for the comforts of slavery in Egypt. He discusses the burden of leadership felt by Moses and how God responded by empowering seventy elders. The conversation emphasizes the need for divine strength amid life's challenges and encourages personal transformation through God's grace. The podcast also explores the deep connection between believers and divine love, portraying a call to embrace God's provisions and support one another in their spiritual journeys.

10 snips
Mar 1, 2025 • 21min
Day 60: Intercessory Prayer (2025)
Reflecting on the transformative power of intercessory prayer, the discussion highlights how Judah led the tribes and Moses acted as a mediator for the people. The role of silver trumpets in signaling the Israelites' journey is explored, emphasizing communal spirit and organization. Themes of humility and God's mercy amid rebellion are examined, paralleling Moses’ plea for remembrance. The podcast also draws connections between Moses and Jesus as intercessors, promoting the importance of community prayer and mutual support in faith.

11 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 20min
Day 59: Obligations to God (2025)
The discussion dives into the rituals surrounding Passover, emphasizing the importance of obedience and remembrance of God's guidance. Listeners hear about the Israelites' journey from slavery to freedom and the significance of worship in maintaining faith. Insights on the consecration of the Levites highlight their role in serving God. Fr. Mike illustrates the need to trust in divine direction, especially during times of abundance, while reflecting on the profound connections between Passover and the Eucharist.

11 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 26min
Day 58: A Chosen People (2025)
Fr. Mike discusses the significance of various offerings during the tabernacle's dedication, emphasizing communal worship. Listeners learn about the divine directives given to Moses and the importance of total devotion to God. The podcast highlights the chosen people's unique mission and warns against idolatry. With a focus on gratitude and faithfulness, it contrasts the experiences of the faithful with those who stray. The episode wraps up by celebrating the unity of God's chosen people and their identity in maintaining faith.

15 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 21min
Day 57: Hear, O Israel (2025)
Discover the intriguing significance of the Nazarite vow and its deep roots in scripture. Explore the powerful teachings behind the Great Command in Deuteronomy 6, which forms the foundation of love and obedience. Reflect on the importance of the Aaronic blessing as a gift for parents to share, ensuring that faith remains central in family life. Additionally, engage with Psalm 91, emphasizing trust and divine protection in our daily journeys. This episode beautifully intertwines themes of dedication, obedience, and spiritual remembrance.

12 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 23min
Day 56: Jealous Husbands (2025)
Explore the intriguing laws around marital jealousy and fidelity, emphasizing how they elevate women's dignity. Discover the unique 'water of bitterness' test for suspected unfaithfulness. Delve into the eternal nature of God contrasted with human fragility, inspired by Psalm 90. Uncover the complexities of jealousy and its implications on women's autonomy within ancient Israelite society. Finally, reflect on the biblical stance against graven images and their place in faith.

16 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 25min
Day 55: Obedience to God (2025)
Obedience to God takes center stage as the discussion explores the Israelites' journey towards faithfulness. The roles of the Levites are revealed, emphasizing individual duties and the need for order in serving God. Psalm 88 is deeply examined, shedding light on sorrow and feelings of abandonment, while connecting to Christ’s suffering. Themes of community and faithfulness encourage listeners to support one another in their spiritual journeys and reflect on God's unwavering presence, even in the darkest moments.