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
Nov 3, 2025 • 20min
Day 307: Courage in Battle (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the courage that faith brings during life's battles. He highlights Judas Maccabeus's triumph in restoring the temple and the origins of Hanukkah. Delving into divine aid, he shares how faith helped defeat Timothy's forces. Wisdom's role is emphasized with Solomon's prayer for guidance, and biblical allusions are decoded, revealing God's fingerprints throughout Scripture. Finally, he advises against unnecessary conflicts, urging reliance on God while offering prayers for those facing challenges.
12 snips
Nov 2, 2025 • 20min
Day 306: Wisdom Is Beautiful (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the captivating qualities of wisdom, highlighting its feminine nature. He narrates Antiochus Epiphanes' downfall, linking it to divine judgment. The discussion shifts to Solomon's humble beginnings and his earnest prayer for wisdom. Exploring wisdom's attributes as a gift from God, he emphasizes its connection to the Holy Spirit. He also reflects on God's presence in suffering, encouraging community support through prayer. The conversation concludes by teasing a deeper exploration of wisdom in the next reading.
15 snips
Nov 1, 2025 • 21min
Day 305: The Defender (2025)
Explore the brave tales of Judas Maccabeus as he rallies an army to defend the Lord's Temple, and discover how his story inspires courage through remembrance of divine rescues. Learn the significance of God's justice and mercy amidst battles and hardships. Fr. Mike reflects on the importance of wisdom and the danger of sloth with practical insights from Proverbs. Ultimately, the message resonates: God is our great defender, actively present in our lives, guiding us through every challenge we face.
14 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 24min
Day 304: Life Beyond Death (2025)
The discussion revolves around the powerful theme of life beyond death. Fr. Mike reflects on the martyrdom of seven brothers who boldly uphold their faith against persecution. Insights from the book of Wisdom highlight hope in immortality and the righteous being in God's grasp. The readings contrast the fates of the righteous versus the ungodly, emphasizing justice and preparation. The episode also touches on purgatorial insights and the eternal perspective, advocating for virtuous living in light of true blessings.
24 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 23min
Day 303: Eleazar's Martyrdom (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into Eleazar's martyrdom, highlighting his remarkable bravery in choosing death over sin. The discussion shifts to the book of Wisdom, where three pivotal lessons emerge: death entered through sin, God did not create it, and true wisdom lies in walking in truth. The narrative also uncovers the trials faced by the righteous against wickedness. Fr. Mike's reflections prompt listeners to consider moral courage and integrity in their own lives, urging a sincere pursuit of wisdom.
17 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 19min
Day 302: The Pursuit of Wisdom (2025)
Fr. Mike highlights the significance of pursuing wisdom, drawing on the teachings of Sirach. He discusses the brutal desecration of the temple by Antiochus and the resilience of Judas Maccabeus. The reflection on not rejoicing in enemies' misfortunes invites a deeper examination of our own hearts. Additionally, he emphasizes suffering as a form of correction leading to hope and restoration. The upcoming battles and the martyr's witness promise an engaging continuation of faith and resilience.
11 snips
Oct 28, 2025 • 23min
Day 301: Rising Again (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the corruption and rivalry for the high priesthood in Jerusalem, highlighting the tension between Simon, Jason, and Menelaus. He celebrates the legacies of David and Solomon, contrasting their achievements and failures. Elijah’s fiery zeal and Elisha’s miracles take center stage, along with themes of restoration through figures like Hezekiah and Josiah. The discussion on Proverbs emphasizes that the righteous rise again after falling, reminding listeners of God’s boundless mercy. Reflection on these Old Testament tales prepares hearts for the New Testament.
7 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 27min
Day 300: Conversion of Heart (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into the significant differences between 1 Maccabees and 2 Maccabees, highlighting God's direct involvement in our lives. He recounts the miraculous story of Heliodorus, illustrating divine intervention protecting the temple. Listeners are encouraged to find daily moments of grace and divine signs in their lives. The conversion story of St. Mary of Egypt serves as a powerful testament to repentance and reconciliation. Fr. Mike reminds us to reflect on what separates us from God and the importance of prayer in bridging that gap.
14 snips
Oct 26, 2025 • 22min
Day 299: Jeremiah Hides the Ark (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the intriguing story of Jeremiah hiding the Ark of the Covenant and its profound implications for God's people. He delves into moral wisdom from Sirach, discussing practical behavior and honoring ancestors. A powerful connection is drawn between the Ark and Christ's fulfillment through Mary. The episode raises poignant questions about legacy and what we will be remembered for, urging love and a deeper relationship with God. Fr. Mike offers a heartfelt prayer to help glorify God and embrace love.
14 snips
Oct 25, 2025 • 24min
Day 298: The Gift of Life (2025)
Discover the intriguing context behind the opening of 2 Maccabees and the miraculous story of Nehemiah recovering the sacred fire. Fr. Mike reflects on life's hardships and the wisdom that transcends material goods. He shares thoughtful insights on how death is perceived differently based on individual circumstances. The discussion emphasizes gratitude for each day and the importance of being present with loved ones, while highlighting the blessings of marriage and family. A poignant reminder of life's sacredness unfolds throughout the narrative.
