

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

21 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 21min
Day 17: Jacob Meets Esau (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the emotional reunion of Jacob and Esau, shedding light on themes of forgiveness and brotherhood. He reflects on Job’s deep lament about his suffering and the yearning for justice in a confusing world. The conversation emphasizes the importance of faith during adversities, showcasing how both Jacob and Job navigate their struggles while seeking God’s presence. The concept of reconciliation amidst brokenness is highlighted, inviting listeners to consider their own journeys of healing and faith in challenging times.

20 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 23min
Day 16: The Suffering of Job (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the complex themes of suffering, justice, and transformation. He reflects on Job's trials, emphasizing the importance of empathy in understanding pain. The discussion contrasts the lives of the prosperous wicked with the righteous, highlighting that wealth doesn't equate to divine favor. Jacob's tumultuous relationship with Laban showcases conflict and personal growth. Ultimately, the value of community support and prayer during difficult times is underscored, reminding us of the importance of being present for one another.

24 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 24min
Day 15: Leah Feels Unloved (2025)
Leah grapples with feelings of unworthiness as she competes for Jacob's love amid family chaos. The podcast dives into the tumultuous dynamics of Jacob's marriages, showcasing themes of rivalry and deception. Expressions of deep despair from individuals feeling forsaken reveal a tension between anguish and hope for divine justice. Through all the struggle, there’s a powerful reminder of God's unwavering love even in our hardest moments. It's a heartfelt exploration of human emotions against a biblical backdrop.

13 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 21min
Day 14: Isaac Blesses Jacob (2025)
Explore the transformative moment when Jacob deceives Isaac for a blessing meant for Esau, revealing the complexities of family dynamics. Delve into Job's lament and the profound wisdom from Proverbs about loyalty and faithfulness. Witness Jacob's divine encounter at Bethel, where he vows to honor God if blessed. Discover the significance of equal parental love and the consequences of favoritism. This journey through scripture highlights the rich themes of blessing, covenant, and the nature of divine encounters.

16 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 21min
Day 13: Esau Sells His Birthright (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the intriguing tale of Esau selling his birthright for a simple bowl of soup, highlighting the dangers of impulsive decisions. The discussion touches on the complexities of Isaac's family dynamics and the rivalries that ensue, particularly between Esau and Jacob. It also reflects on the broader themes of human brokenness and the struggles with temptation, emphasizing the need for divine grace in recognizing our true worth. Listeners are invited to ponder how immediate gratification can obscure long-term value.

23 snips
Jan 12, 2025 • 20min
Day 12: Isaac and Rebekah (2025)
The story of Isaac and Rebekah unfolds, showcasing divine providence in life's moments. A heartfelt reflection on how Rebekah's selflessness brings comfort to Isaac during his grief is captivating. The podcast also dives into the complexities of suffering and the quest for understanding in difficult times. Listeners are encouraged to trust in divine guidance amidst uncertainty, emphasizing the importance of faith and community while navigating life's challenges.

21 snips
Jan 11, 2025 • 20min
Day 11: The Sacrifice of Isaac (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the profound test of faith that Abraham faced when asked to sacrifice Isaac, exploring its immense significance across generations. The discussion highlights divine intervention and Abraham’s deep mourning for Sarah, showcasing themes of sacrifice and heritage. It also tackles Job’s struggle with suffering and trust in divine wisdom amidst human misunderstanding. The connection between Abraham's faith and New Testament themes of salvation emphasizes the importance of trusting God's plan, even through difficult trials.

20 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 21min
Day 10: Hagar and Ishmael (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the complex narratives of Abraham’s family, highlighting the struggles between Isaac and Ishmael. The discussion reveals themes of divine promise and provision amidst deception and conflict. Job's reflections on suffering and justice add depth, exploring his feelings of despair while seeking to understand his relationship with God. The message emphasizes that faith can coexist with doubt, encouraging listeners to maintain their connection to the divine, even during challenging times.

23 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 21min
Day 9: Sodom and Gomorrah (2025)
Discover the intense tale of Sodom and Gomorrah, where divine justice clashes with human morality. Explore Abraham's heartfelt intercession and the theme of suffering through Job's lamentations. Delve into profound questions of faith and the quest for wisdom, highlighting the importance of hospitality and the complexity of righteousness. The narrative weaves together hope amidst impending doom, encouraging listeners to reflect on their understanding of justice and the divine.

22 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 19min
Day 8: The Surrender of Abraham (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the profound theme of surrender as Abram transforms into Abraham. The podcast examines the struggles of childbearing, particularly the roles of Hagar and Ishmael. It delves into hope amidst suffering, emphasizing divine promises that guide through adversity. Listeners are invited to reflect on the journey of faith and companionship, highlighting the importance of presence over answers in relationships. Insights into Job's turmoil also underscore the necessity of seeking wisdom and reaffirming faith in difficult times.