

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

4 snips
Nov 10, 2024 • 29min
Day 315: The Virtue of Mercy (2024)
Fr. Mike explores the profound theme of mercy as exemplified in Jesus' miracles, highlighting the importance of compassion in our lives. He discusses the balance between human goodness and our inherent brokenness due to original sin. Key moments include Jesus’ acts of healing and the need for humility in judgment, emphasizing that true strength lies in forgiveness. The podcast also challenges the notion that mercy is a sign of weakness, revealing it instead as a powerful transformative force.

Nov 9, 2024 • 28min
Day 314: My Beloved Son (2024)
Explore the profound significance of Jesus' Baptism in the Jordan River, where He signifies a new exodus for humanity. Fr. Mike connects this event to Joshua leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and highlights the theme of humility through the river's location. Delve into the importance of self-control in relationships, as shared through Proverbs, and the comforting truth of being beloved children of God, adopted by grace. Experience the themes of acceptance and rejection as Jesus faces resistance in Nazareth while performing miraculous healings.

Nov 8, 2024 • 34min
Messianic Checkpoint: The Gospel of Luke (with Jeff Cavins) (2024)
Jeff Cavins, a renowned Catholic Bible scholar and author of the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, joins Fr. Mike to dive into the Gospel of Luke. They discuss Luke's unique portrayal of Jesus' humanity and compassion for marginalized individuals. The conversation highlights the significant roles of women in the Gospel and emphasizes the transformative power of prayer and discipleship. Additionally, they explore the connection between Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, offering listeners a holistic understanding of these critical texts.

Nov 8, 2024 • 26min
Day 313: The Ark of the New Covenant (2024)
Fr. Mike dives into the Gospel of Luke, drawing attention to Mary and her pivotal role. He contrasts the responses of Zechariah and Mary to the angel Gabriel, highlighting faith and understanding. The discussion connects Mary to the Ark of the Covenant, stressing her significance in fulfilling God's promises. Key biblical events, including the birth announcements of Jesus and John the Baptist, showcase the unfolding of prophetic messages. The teachings from Proverbs are also explored, emphasizing the value of peace and good news in our lives.

Nov 7, 2024 • 15min
Day 312: Conclusion to the Old Testament (2024)
Fr. Mike celebrates the monumental achievement of completing the Old Testament readings. He highlights the heroic stand of the Maccabees, emphasizing their motivation to protect the temple. The podcast explores the themes of faith versus arrogance, illustrated by the battle between Nicanor and Judas. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the power of choices and divine guidance. Lastly, it touches on the importance of compassionate hospitality and the unwavering connection to God in challenging times.

Nov 6, 2024 • 24min
Day 311: God Fights for You (2024)
Fr. Mike dives into the profound theme of God fighting for us amid life's chaos and brokenness. He highlights dramatic tales from Maccabees, exploring the betrayal and sacrifice during turbulent times. The contrast between despair and hope is vividly portrayed as he examines the wicked versus the righteous. Prepare for a pivotal transition to the New Testament, filled with divine intervention and spiritual growth. Ultimately, the message resonates: amidst chaos, God's presence offers justice and hope.

5 snips
Nov 5, 2024 • 22min
Day 310: Rivals for the Heart (2024)
Fr. Mike highlights the danger of making good things into idols that rival our devotion to God. He emphasizes the importance of discerning what distracts us from our spiritual journey. The courageous fight of Judas Maccabeus against oppression showcases valor in faith. A hockey player's pivotal moment is contrasted with the deeper significance of spiritual experiences like the Eucharist. Ultimately, the discussion encourages prioritizing relationship with the divine over worldly achievements.

7 snips
Nov 4, 2024 • 26min
Day 309: Praying for the Dead (2024)
Fr. Mike explains the doctrine of purgatory, emphasizing its role in preparing souls for divine love. He discusses the importance of praying for the dead, rooted in the historical context of 2 Maccabees. The folly of idol worship is critiqued, highlighting how good things can become idols, diverting us from the Creator. Similarly, he reflects on the dangers of misplaced reverence and moral decay. Ultimately, the journey through purgatory is framed as essential for achieving true communion with God.

Nov 3, 2024 • 23min
Day 308: Little by Little (2024)
Fr. Mike reveals how divine intervention helps the Maccabees triumph over oppression, showcasing the power of prayer. He discusses the delicate balance between justice and mercy, illustrating how suffering can lead to spiritual growth. The podcast emphasizes that while God corrects us gradually, our active participation in faith is crucial. Themes of community, repentance, and trusting in divine guidance play a vital role in the journey, highlighting how little by little, we can overcome our daily battles.

Nov 2, 2024 • 21min
Day 307: Courage in Battle (2024)
Discover the confidence that faith in God brings as we navigate life’s battles. Explore the Maccabean victories and the significance of the restored temple, revealing divine assistance in overcoming challenges. Delve into Solomon's quest for wisdom and how it guides the faithful. The story of Judas Maccabeus emphasizes reliance on divine strength. Wisdom's influence throughout biblical history showcases its protective nature, urging us to seek God’s guidance in community.


