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
15 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 13min
Day 114: David Saves Keilah (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into David's bravery as he defends Keilah, showcasing his reliance on divine guidance amid danger. He highlights the importance of seeking God's will before making decisions, depicting David as a model for discernment. The discussion includes David's escape from Saul's betrayal and the overwhelming Philistine threat. Through these narratives, listeners are reminded of the constant, often unseen, divine interventions in their lives and the power of faith and prayer to navigate challenges.
20 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 16min
Day 113: Broken Trust (2025)
Today's discussion revolves around the painful betrayal of David by Doeg the Edomite, emphasizing the deep wounds caused by broken trust. David's desperate flight leads him to the priest Ahimelech, whose kindness results in tragic consequences. The exploration of Psalm 52 highlights the importance of seeking divine strength to heal from betrayal. The conversation weaves together themes of faith, trust in God, and the impact of deceit, serving as a poignant reminder of the complexities of loyalty and divine provision.
21 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 18min
Day 112: True Friendship (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the iconic friendship between David and Jonathan, delving into themes of loyalty and sacrifice. He discusses Greek concepts of friendship, highlighting how rare true bonds are. The emotional depth of their relationship is showcased through a secret signaling plan to confront King Saul, reinforcing their unwavering loyalty. Furthermore, reflections on Psalm 142 emphasize the significance of friendship in times of distress and the divine support it offers, encouraging listeners to value authentic connections.
23 snips
Apr 21, 2025 • 20min
Day 111: Saul Tries to Kill David (2025)
Explore the deep bond between Jonathan and David, highlighting loyalty in the face of Saul's growing jealousy. Discover how David praises God even when under threat, showcasing resilience and faith. Uncover the surprising moment when Saul prophesies, revealing the complex interplay of divine influence and personal turmoil. Delve into the importance of virtuous friendships, especially amidst envy, and reflect on how worship can uplift us during life’s challenges.
31 snips
Apr 20, 2025 • 19min
Day 110: David and Goliath (2025)
Today we read the epic story of how David defeats Goliath, a giant Philistine warrior. Fr. Mike points out that David's heroic courage in this battle came from David's faithfulness to God and to the small tasks entrusted to him as a shepherd. We learn that when we are faithful and courageous in small matters, we can face the giants in our bigger battles. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 17 and Psalm 12.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
27 snips
Apr 19, 2025 • 18min
Day 109: A Heart of Obedience (2025)
Discover the profound lessons in obedience as Fr. Mike highlights Saul's disobedience and the consequences that follow. The contrast with David, a man after God’s own heart, emphasizes the importance of inner qualities over mere appearances. Explore the challenges of maintaining faith amidst personal vanity and the transition of divine favor marked by David's anointing. Delve into how spiritual obedience shapes our relationship with God and the role of grace and community in our journeys.
23 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 22min
Day 108: Saul's Vanity (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into Saul's vanity and brokenness, highlighting his unlawful sacrifice that triggers dire consequences. The narrative shifts to Jonathan, showcasing his courageous leadership against the Philistines fueled by faith amidst scarce resources. Tensions rise as Saul's rash oaths complicate his relationship with his son, leading to a near-tragic decree. The exploration underscores the stark contrast between Saul's flawed leadership and Jonathan's valor, emphasizing the impact of faith and wisdom in difficult times.
22 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 21min
Day 107: Samuel's Speech (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the complex dynamics of Israel's request for a king, illustrating how even misguided choices invite divine presence. He reflects on Saul's rise to power and the importance of loyalty during challenging times. The people’s confession of their sins serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of straying from God. With themes of betrayal and mercy, the discussion encourages a deep consideration of prayer and divine guidance in our lives.
20 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 21min
Day 106: Saul Is Chosen (2025)
The fascinating transition to Israel's Royal Kingdom kicks off with the introduction of Saul, the first king. He embodies both strength and vulnerability, revealing internal conflicts about his worthiness. Additionally, the significance of Proverbs comes into play, adding depth to the discussion. The exploration of Saul's anointing by Samuel sheds light on the complex nature of leadership and public perception, making for a captivating reflection on power and its challenges.
20 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 25min
Introduction to the Royal Kingdom (with Jeff Cavins) (2025)
Jeff Cavins, a renowned Catholic Bible scholar and creator of The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, joins to discuss the Royal Kingdom period in Israel. They explore the shift from judges to monarchy, detailing the people's desire for a king and God's response. Major figures like Saul, David, and Solomon are analyzed, revealing the complexities of biblical leadership. The conversation emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promises through David's lineage, ultimately linking these narratives to the advent of Jesus as the Messiah and the lessons we can apply today.
