

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

27 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 26min
Day 105: It Is Finished (2025)
The final reading from the Gospel of John delves into the profound themes of Jesus' crucifixion, death, and resurrection. Connections between the Paschal lamb and Jesus illuminate the significance of the Last Supper. Key moments include Mary Magdalene's discovery of the empty tomb and Jesus' miraculous appearances to his disciples. A fishing encounter highlights Peter's commission, emphasizing love, forgiveness, and the importance of divine guidance. Reflections from Proverbs add depth to these pivotal events, showcasing the transformative power of faith.

20 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 22min
Day 104: The Priestly Prayer of Jesus (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into Jesus' heartfelt prayer before His sacrifice, emphasizing its significance for believers today. The discussion shifts to Christ's trial with Pilate, revealing parallels with contemporary challenges. Listeners explore the Holy Spirit’s comforting role in times of transition and the importance of unity in faith. Key moments from Jesus’ arrest highlight struggles with denial and the quest for truth. Overall, it invites deeper reflection on our connection to divine love amidst life's trials.

26 snips
Apr 13, 2025 • 21min
Day 103: Judas' Secrecy (2025)
Explore the shadows of secrecy in Judas' life and how it led to betrayal. Fr. Mike sheds light on Jesus' powerful words to his disciples before the crucifixion. The importance of confronting temptation by bringing it to Jesus is emphasized. Delve into profound themes of love, obedience, and the supportive role of the Holy Spirit in our struggles. The podcast also contrasts the choices of Judas and Peter, highlighting the necessity of community and a deep relationship with Christ.

33 snips
Apr 12, 2025 • 25min
Day 102: The Death of Lazarus (2025)
The podcast explores the touching account of Lazarus's death and resurrection, highlighting Jesus's profound compassion. It delves into the emotional struggles experienced by Lazarus's sisters, Martha and Mary, while showcasing Jesus as the source of life. There’s a discussion on the significance of belief, reflecting on how faith leads to salvation. Additionally, the teachings of Jesus as the Good Shepherd emphasize the bond with His followers and the responsibility we have in accepting His message. A heartfelt examination of human suffering and faith's transformative power adds depth to the conversation.

26 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.

29 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.

33 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.

38 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.

14 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.


