

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

Sep 27, 2024 • 29min
Day 271: Israel's Foreign Wives (2024)
Explore the intriguing reasons behind God's instruction to Israel regarding foreign marriages. Discover Ezra's powerful reaction upon realizing the disobedience of prominent Israelites. Delve into the prophetic revelations of Zechariah, including the significance of Palm Sunday and the thirty pieces of silver. Reflect on themes of repentance and accountability among the Israelites as they strive to restore their covenant with God. Finally, enjoy insights on wisdom and community as they navigate their journey back to the Promised Land.

Sep 26, 2024 • 27min
Day 270: God's Favor with Ezra (2024)
In this engaging discussion, Ezra, the devoted biblical figure known for his deep commitment to studying and teaching God’s laws, shares insights on his journey. Fr. Mike explores how Ezra's dedication earns him God's favor as he leads the Israelites back to their homeland. They tackle the concept of hypocritical fasting, emphasizing that true sacrifices remind us that everything belongs to God. The conversation highlights the importance of total devotion and reliance on divine guidance in one’s spiritual life.

Sep 25, 2024 • 23min
Day 269: The Day of Small Things (2024)
Fr. Mike discusses the importance of small beginnings and how God transforms them into greatness. He reflects on the challenges faced by those rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem and the divine guidance they received. The celebration of the Feast of Unleavened Bread emphasizes joy in starting anew. Fr. Mike connects prophetic visions to the faith-driven actions of the people, highlighting their significance in fulfilling divine plans. The podcast explores how seemingly minor actions can lead to significant outcomes in rebuilding both the temple and faith.

4 snips
Sep 24, 2024 • 29min
Day 268: Rebuilding the Temple (2024)
The discussion delves into the rebuilding of the temple and the collective journey of repentance, illuminated by the challenges faced during worship restoration. The emotional landscape of returning exiles, caught between joy and grief, is vividly portrayed, alongside the tensions with Samaritans. Further exploration highlights themes of forgiveness and redemption, showcasing Joshua's transformative vision of receiving divine mercy. This journey emphasizes the power of hope and compassion for Jerusalem's restoration.

Sep 23, 2024 • 30min
Introduction to the Return (with Jeff Cavins) (2024)
Jeff Cavins, a biblical scholar focused on the Israelites' return to Jerusalem, delves into the ninth biblical period. He and Fr. Mike discuss the shift from exile to renewal, highlighting pivotal figures like Zerubbabel and Ezra. They explore how faith transformed post-Babylon, leading to the establishment of synagogues as community hubs. The conversation touches on the healing powers of Jesus and contrasts worldly and divine wisdom. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own spiritual journeys amidst life's chaos.

Sep 23, 2024 • 22min
Day 267: Indifference and Apathy (2024)
Join the exploration of the Israelites' return from Babylonian exile, emphasizing the crucial role of King Cyrus in rebuilding the temple. Discover the importance of lineage as many struggle to prove their priestly heritage. Delve into the theme of rebuilding with purpose, as the community reflects on their priorities and spiritual journeys. The discussion warns against apathy towards God, encouraging a renewal of faith and commitment, paralleling the historical struggles faced by the returning exiles.

Sep 23, 2024 • 15min
BONUS: If You Feel Like Giving Up (with Jeff Cavins) (2024)
Jeff Cavins, a dedicated guide for those wrestling with their faith, provides uplifting insights for listeners feeling overwhelmed. He emphasizes that struggling with scripture is okay, as God meets us where we are. The duo dives into the importance of understanding prophetic messages, balancing conviction with comfort. They stress the power of consistency in engaging with the Bible, portraying it as essential for spiritual growth and community. Personal stories further illuminate how divine timing shapes our journeys in faith.

Sep 22, 2024 • 23min
Day 266: Son of the Father (2024)
Fr. Mike dives deep into Christ’s passion, highlighting the significance of Barabbas and the concept of false truths. He reflects on the emotional weight of Jesus' trial and resurrection, contrasting the choices individuals face in their faith. Understanding of covenants is enriched by connecting prophetic messages to the New Testament, emphasizing faith continuity. The discussion wraps up with Jesus' connection to human feelings of abandonment, reminding listeners of his enduring presence amid challenges.

5 snips
Sep 21, 2024 • 26min
Day 265: Sins of Omission (2024)
Fr. Mike dives into the concept of sins of omission, emphasizing their impact on one's eternal fate. He discusses the significance of good works as a divine calling and explores the parable of the talents and wise maidens. The teachings of readiness and stewardship highlight the importance of personal responsibility in one's faith journey. Intriguingly, he examines the moments leading to the crucifixion, exploring themes of betrayal and sacrifice. Listeners are reminded of the power of honest prayer and mutual support during spiritual struggles.

4 snips
Sep 20, 2024 • 26min
Day 264: Preaching Without Practice (2024)
Fr. Mike delves into the powerful parables told by Jesus in Jerusalem, stressing the importance of living out God’s Word rather than just preaching it. He confronts the hypocrisy of the Scribes and Pharisees, highlighting their disconnect from true justice and mercy. Themes of civic versus divine responsibility are explored, alongside profound messages about resurrection and vigilance for the end times. Listeners are challenged to reflect on their authenticity in faith and the core teachings of Jesus.


