

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

Nov 19, 2024 • 24min
Day 324: The Name of Jesus (2024)
Peter’s miraculous healing of a lame man showcases the power of faith in Jesus. The importance of belief, repentance, and divine grace is emphasized through Abraham’s example. The podcast also delves into how suffering plays a significant role in our lives, with God using our trials to restore and transform us. Miracles bridge the gap between faith and healing, revealing the profound love of God that transcends divisions within the early Christian community.

7 snips
Nov 18, 2024 • 24min
Day 323: Pentecost (2024)
Fr. Mike shares the explosive moment of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit empowered the apostles. He highlights Peter's impactful address that ignited the early Church, calling for repentance and baptism. The discussion contrasts faith in Jesus with reliance on works, emphasizing God's impartiality. The transformative arrival of the Holy Spirit fosters community and strong devotion among believers. Lastly, the vital roles of the Eucharist and prayer are explored, showcasing redemption as a divine gift through faith.

6 snips
Nov 17, 2024 • 40min
Introduction to the Church (with Jeff Cavins) (2024)
Jeff Cavins, a renowned Catholic Bible scholar and creator of The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, joins Fr. Mike to dive into the Church period of the Bible. They discuss the foundational moments of the early Church, emphasizing the significance of Rome and the martyrs. The duo explores the roles of Paul and Peter in spreading the Gospel, as well as the key themes in Acts and Revelation. Engaging stories illustrate the Holy Spirit's transformative impact and the challenges early Christians faced, urging listeners to deepen their faith.

Nov 17, 2024 • 19min
Day 322: The Ascension (2024)
The podcast delves into the momentous event of the Ascension of Jesus and its implications for the early church. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of responding to Christ's mission and not shying away from the Gospel. The selection of Matthias as Judas' replacement showcases themes of prayer and unity. The discussion also highlights Paul's letter to the Romans, focusing on faith and community dynamics. Listeners receive encouragement to witness their transformative faith and embrace their role in spreading Christ's message.

Nov 16, 2024 • 27min
Day 321: Jesus' Prayer in the Garden (2024)
Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane reveals a deep relationship with God, emphasizing honesty and trust. The discussion highlights themes of loyalty and betrayal, especially through Judas' actions. The journey to Emmaus underscores the recognition of Jesus in breaking bread, drawing parallels with the Eucharist and the transformative nature of scripture. Additionally, the significance of Jesus' last words on the cross resonates as essential spiritual lessons, reminding us of the power of prayer and connection in our faith journeys.

Nov 15, 2024 • 23min
Day 320: Peter's Denial Foretold (2024)
The discussion focuses on the significance of sacrificial giving and the heartfelt intention behind our gifts. Fr. Mike reflects on Jesus' powerful words to Peter, highlighting themes of loyalty and impending denial. The podcast emphasizes the ongoing battle between faith and betrayal, reminding listeners of divine mercy and the importance of community support. As the Gospel of Luke approaches its end, these reflections encourage a deeper connection to the trials and sacrifices we face in our spiritual journeys.

Nov 14, 2024 • 24min
Day 319: Come, Follow Me (2024)
Fr. Mike dives into the contrasting stories of the rich young man and Zacchaeus, highlighting the importance of wholeheartedly embracing Christ's call. He emphasizes themes of humility and gratitude through parables, encouraging listeners to reflect on spiritual wealth over material gain. Jesus’ prophetic messages resonate alongside miraculous healings, culminating in the significance of faith and stewardship. The exploration of sin and mercy reminds us of the inclusive nature of grace, making the journey toward salvation accessible to everyone.

23 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 34min
Day 318: The Narrow Gate, the Lost Sheep, and the Prodigal Son (2024)
Fr. Mike discusses the sobering reality that many choose hell over heaven, urging listeners to strive for the narrow gate. He reflects on the parables of the Lost Sheep and the Prodigal Son, highlighting themes of compassion, redemption, and the joy of returning home. The commentary emphasizes humility and warns against wealth and self-righteousness, reminding us of the importance of striving for salvation and a genuine connection with the divine.

Nov 12, 2024 • 27min
Day 317: Persistence in Prayer (2024)
Explore the power of persistence in prayer as Fr. Mike encourages shameless conversations with God. He delves into the contrasting views of God's generosity versus human reluctance. The discussion also highlights the risks of spiritual complacency and emphasizes the significance of inner purity. Amidst the challenges of faith within families, the importance of patience and prayer is reinforced, providing comfort to those facing disconnection due to differing beliefs. This reflection invites deeper faith and divine guidance.

7 snips
Nov 11, 2024 • 24min
Day 316: Absolute Surrender (2024)
Fr. Mike explores our call to absolute surrender, highlighting the need to trust God and renounce our earthly attachments. He reflects on the story of Mary and Martha, urging listeners to avoid being overwhelmed by life's anxieties. The discussion revolves around the demands of discipleship, emphasizing mercy and spiritual priorities. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize spiritual freedom, finding joy in God's presence while navigating daily challenges.


