

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

18 snips
Sep 14, 2025 • 21min
Day 257: Choose to Love (2025)
Fr. Mike wraps up the poignant story of Jeremiah, highlighting a flicker of hope amidst turmoil. He delves into Obadiah's message on justice and the consequences of celebrating another's downfall. The discussion prompts listeners to reflect on their own relationships, urging them to choose love, even in the face of conflict. The readings also tie in wisdom from Proverbs, emphasizing understanding and compassion. It's a powerful reminder of the impact of our choices, especially within families.

8 snips
Sep 13, 2025 • 26min
Day 256: Hard Seasons (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into the power of prayer during tough times, encouraging listeners to stay connected with God through their struggles. He reflects on the fall of Babylon and the deep suffering of Jerusalem, illustrating the theme of divine judgment. A heartfelt prayer for restoration contrasts grief with wisdom from Proverbs, emphasizing faith and humility. Moreover, the podcast examines the relationship between suffering and God's will, urging audiences to engage in open dialogue with God for hope amid despair.

6 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 29min
Day 255: God Is Good (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the poignant reflections of Jeremiah and Lamentations, emphasizing that despite evil in the world, God's goodness remains unwavering. He highlights divine judgments against nations, illustrating the peril of pride and the hope found in restoration. The fall of Babylon is a focal point, showcasing the significance of seeking mercy and the power of hope amidst despair. Wisdom from Proverbs reveals the dangers of gossip, reinforcing God's promise of transformation and love for His faithful.

9 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 21min
Day 254: Judgment of Nations (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into the heavy themes of judgment from Jeremiah as he addresses the nations surrounding Israel. The impending doom of Moab and the sorrow of Jerusalem are artfully depicted, interweaving deep lamentations with hope for restoration. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own shortcomings and respond to God's call for repentance. This exploration of divine justice invites a thoughtful meditation on the complexities of faith and redemption.

18 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 24min
Day 253: Lamentations of Jeremiah (2025)
Delve into the profound sorrow of Jeremiah as he witnesses Jerusalem's siege and suffering. Discover God's comforting words to Baruch amidst the chaos. Explore the deep themes of despair and resilience woven through Lamentations while highlighting Jerusalem’s lost glory. Reflect on the lessons of suffering, prayer, and wisdom found in Proverbs, emphasizing the importance of honoring parents and finding hope in challenging times. The narrative connects historical grief with modern struggles, offering a glimmer of hope amidst despair.

21 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 26min
Day 252: Queen of Heaven (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into Israel's rejection of Jeremiah's prophetic warnings and the consequences of turning to idolatry, specifically in worshipping the Queen of Heaven. The discussion contrasts pagan practices with the honor given to Mary in Catholicism. Listeners also enjoy Judith's triumphant song of praise, celebrating faith and friendship amidst challenges. Themes of loyalty and the struggle for true faith are intricately woven throughout the narrative, prompting reflection on personal connections to scripture.

24 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 27min
Day 251: Judith and Holofernes (2025)
Today’s discussions center around key figures in a time of turmoil. Ishmael’s violent rebellion creates chaos, prompting Jeremiah to offer hope. Meanwhile, Judith's bold strategy against Holofernes showcases her incredible bravery. Her cunning plan not only liberates her people but also reinforces themes of faith and the power of women in history. Insightful reflections on these dramatic events make this a compelling exploration of courage and divine guidance amidst adversity.

11 snips
Sep 7, 2025 • 28min
Day 250: Final Wave of Exile (2025)
Fr. Mike discusses the dramatic fall of Jerusalem and the daring strategy of Judith in confronting Holofernes. The themes of wisdom and forgiveness are woven through stories of resilience and faith amid destruction. The importance of guarding our speech is underscored, revealing how our words impact relationships. Jeremiahs's pivotal decisions come to light as he navigates the chaos, highlighting trust in divine guidance during adversities.

9 snips
Sep 6, 2025 • 29min
Day 249: Prayer of Judith (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the remarkable faith of Judith, the Old Testament heroine, whose prayer serves as both intercession and praise. The discussion highlights Jeremiah's imprisonment and the desperate plea of King Zedekiah amid a Babylonian siege. Judith's courage shines as she calls her fellow citizens to rely on God, rejecting false idols. The reflections touch on compassion for the needy and the challenging nature of prophetic leadership, drawing parallels between Jeremiah’s trials and Christ’s suffering, ultimately celebrating Judith's unwavering faith.

11 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 29min
Day 248: Cut to the Heart (2025)
Fr. Mike discusses the vital contrast between faithfulness and disobedience, using the Rechabites as a model of commitment amidst adversity. He reflects on the significance of trusting in God's care during life's refining trials, suggesting that challenges can foster spiritual growth. The narrative highlights divine calls as a pathway to self-improvement, contrasting the obedient Baruch with the dismissive King Jehoiakim. It's a compelling exploration of integrity and faith in tough times, urging listeners to examine their own commitments.