

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

12 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 24min
Day 266: Son of the Father (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into Christ's passion as we wrap up the Gospel of Matthew. He explains the significance of Barabbas and reflects on the temptations associated with false truths. Listeners explore the dramatic events of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion, including Judas' remorse and the soldiers’ mockery. The podcast also highlights the importance of saints and the fulfillment of the new covenant, offering a deep context for our faith through the Great Commission.

15 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 27min
Day 265: Sins of Omission (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the weighty topic of sins of omission and their critical role in determining salvation. He highlights parables, like the talents and the wise maidens, emphasizing the importance of personal virtues and good deeds. The discussion includes a powerful reflection on Jesus in Gethsemane, illustrating honest prayer mixed with deep trust in God. This exploration of faith challenges listeners to consider how they use their gifts and the impact of their choices.

14 snips
Sep 21, 2025 • 26min
Day 264: Preaching Without Practice (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into Jesus' striking parables while emphasizing the dangers of preaching without practice. He exposes the hypocrisy of the Scribes and Pharisees, urging listeners to embody their faith authentically. The discussion also covers warnings about false prophets, tribulation, and the importance of being watchful. Lastly, the conversation touches on evaluating leaders by their actions rather than mere words, all while blending scriptural insights with practical wisdom.

20 snips
Sep 20, 2025 • 28min
Day 263: The Father's Generosity (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the profound lessons from various parables in Matthew, emphasizing themes like childlike humility and the boundless nature of God's generosity. He discusses the importance of forgiveness through the story of the unmerciful servant and reflects on the rich young man's call to true discipleship. The impact of Jesus' teachings on wealth, service, and suffering shines through as he challenges listeners to combat envy and embrace generosity. Childlike faith and the pursuit of the lost are key takeaways in this enlightening exploration.

18 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 28min
Day 262: Miracle Worker (2025)
In today's discussions, the focus is on the miraculous acts of Jesus, from feeding 5,000 to walking on water. Fr. Mike emphasizes the reality of these miracles, asserting Jesus' divinity and His compassion for humanity. The dialogue also touches on the significance of faith, with reflections on Peter's experiences and the confrontation with Pharisaic traditions. Listeners are encouraged to recognize their own potential for extraordinary acts through faith, while pondering the mission of the Church in spreading light and love.

23 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 29min
Day 261: Ornate Souls (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into the power of parables in Matthew, illustrating vital lessons like the dangers of an empty soul. He warns that simply removing sin isn't enough; we must fill our hearts with virtue to truly connect with God. The discussion includes the sower's varying soils and the importance of commitment, highlighting how evil can lurk even among the faithful. Engaging and thought-provoking, this session urges listeners to reflect on their spiritual state and the necessity of a deeper relationship with God.

18 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 26min
Day 260: Carrying the Cross (2025)
Delve into the transformative power of faith as Jesus performs miraculous healings, showcasing His divine identity. Explore the mission of the disciples and their authority to heal while navigating challenges. Discover the pivotal journey from darkness to light through baptism, and the call to embrace one’s cross despite adversity. Fr. Mike emphasizes courage in the face of persecution, reminding us of our worth in God's eyes and the deep fulfillment found in surrendering to Him.

10 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 27min
Day 259: The Sermon on the Mount (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the dynamic teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, revealing how Jesus fulfills the old testament law. He emphasizes that the heart's intentions are the true source of our actions, linking internal purity with moral integrity. The discussion also highlights the transformative power of scripture and the profound value of genuine friendship. Ultimately, listeners are invited to engage with the message of mercy and community, discovering that Jesus is the remedy for our sins and the secret to holiness.

30 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 25min
Day 258: The Kingdom Is Here (2025)
Discover the fascinating genealogy of Jesus in Matthew, linking Him to pivotal figures like Abraham and David. Hear about the miraculous nativity and Joseph's brave flight to Egypt, fulfilling ancient prophecies. Learn how Jesus begins His ministry, facing temptation and calling His first disciples. The narrative emphasizes repentance and invites listeners to understand how Christ is reconstituting the kingdom, extending an invitation to join Him in this divine journey.

18 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 39min
Messianic Checkpoint: The Gospel of Matthew (with Jeff Cavins) - 2025
Jeff Cavins, a Catholic Bible scholar and author of The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, joins Fr. Mike to dive into the Gospel of Matthew. They discuss its unique emphasis on discipleship and Jesus as the Messiah for a Jewish audience. Listeners will learn about the significance of the genealogy, the powerful lessons from the Sermon on the Mount, and the importance of spiritual practices like almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. The conversation emphasizes the relevance of Matthew's teachings in today’s spiritual journeys and the communal support of faith.