The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 71: The Source of the Law (2026)
28 snips
Mar 12, 2026 Balaam unexpectedly blesses Israel and affirms that God’s promises cannot be undone. Readings explore laws on marriage, divorce, justice, and fair treatment of the vulnerable. Passages discuss punishment, duty, honest measures, and care for people and animals. A psalm of confession highlights repeated mercy and covenant faithfulness.
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Balaam Used To Bless Instead Of Curse
- Fr. Mike recounts how Balaam, hired to curse Israel, ends up only speaking God's blessing.
- The story highlights Balaam's moral ambiguity: he obeys God's words yet is seen as a man for hire whose motives are suspect.
Laws Arise From Real Community Problems
- Fr. Mike explains the unifying point of Deuteronomy's laws: their source is the Lord and they address real situations.
- Laws often respond to recurring problems in community life, not abstract morality alone.
Create Rules In Response To Actual Disputes
- Do recognize that rules evolve from specific disputes and needs, like clarifying kickball rules after an injury.
- Fr. Mike uses everyday examples to show how practical situations force the creation of clear community standards.