

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

16 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.

17 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.

15 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.

20 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.

17 snips
Feb 23, 2025 • 21min
Day 54: The Tribe of Levi (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the pivotal role of the Tribe of Levi, highlighting their higher standards as leaders and their unique responsibilities in temple service. He reflects on Moses' longing for the Promised Land and addresses the divine command given to Joshua. The discussion touches on the conquest of Og, the redemption of Israel's firstborns, and the importance of gratitude towards God, emphasizing leadership consequences and community prayer in spiritual journeys.

23 snips
Feb 22, 2025 • 23min
Day 53: The Twelve Tribes of Israel (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the twelve tribes of Israel, highlighting their organization and significance during their 38 years in the wilderness. He discusses God's instructions to Moses and the relationships with neighboring tribes. The themes of order, identity, and divine faithfulness are explored, emphasizing mercy and the role of Judah. The podcast also confronts the harsh realities of violence faced as the Israelites approach their promised land, reflecting on the need for faith amidst turmoil.

14 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 26min
Day 52: Israel Continues to Journey (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into Israel's transition from Exodus to their desert wanderings, spotlighting the census as a testament to God's care. He examines the challenges of leadership and the gravity of obedience, revealing the dire consequences of defiance against divine command. The discussion shifts to the joy of worship and the profound longing for God's presence, culminating in reflections on the structure and significance of their wilderness journey. Trusting in God emerges as a key theme, underscoring His mercy and guidance along the way.

27 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 31min
Introduction to Desert Wanderings (with Jeff Cavins) (2025)
Join Jeff Cavins, a renowned Catholic Bible scholar and creator of the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, as he uncovers the fascinating dynamics of Israel's journey through the desert. They delve into the important roles of Numbers and Deuteronomy, discussing themes of trust and identity during 40 years of wandering. Cavins highlights how God's commandments serve as vital reminders for the Israelites. The conversation also touches on the relevance of these desert experiences to modern spiritual journeys, particularly during challenges like the COVID pandemic.

22 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 28min
Day 51: Israel's Worship of God (2025)
Explore the intricate details of priestly garments and the construction of the tabernacle, showcasing obedience to God's commands. Discover the significance of votive offerings and the laws that protect their sacred nature. Delve into the transformative power of worship, emphasizing its role in connecting God with His people beyond mere rituals. The discussion also highlights the challenges of maintaining spiritual commitments amid daily life and sets the stage for the Israelites' journey through the desert.

15 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 27min
Day 50: Sacrificial Offerings (2025)
Explore the themes of sacrifice and generosity inspired by Israel's offerings. Discover the significance of sacred objects like the Ark of the Covenant in worship. Delve into God's conditional promises and the consequences of obedience versus disobedience. A plea for justice highlights the importance of caring for the weak and oppressed, underscoring a deep relationship between humanity and the divine. Reflect on how genuine giving and humility can lead to restoration, showcasing God's loving guidance.


