The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 40: Laws of Justice (2026)
47 snips
Feb 9, 2026 A close look at laws of restitution and how justice aims to repair rather than retaliate. Social and religious rules that protect strangers, widows, and the poor get explored. Unusual ancient purity rules about bodily discharges and restraint are unpacked. Psalm 76 portrays God as powerful judge and protector of the oppressed.
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Justice Over Vengeance
- Exodus 22 outlines restorative laws that limit vengeance and aim for fair restitution in community disputes.
- Fr. Mike Schmitz explains these laws reveal God's heart as a just God calling people to justice rather than revenge.
Laws Protect The Vulnerable
- Social and religious laws protect vulnerable people like strangers, widows, and orphans from oppression.
- Fr. Mike emphasizes these statutes build communal harmony by setting limits on exploitation and ensuring compassion.
Bodily Emissions Signal Sacredness
- Leviticus 15 frames bodily discharges as matters of sacred concern tied to life and relationships, not mere disgust.
- Fr. Mike says these rules stress carefulness around life-giving bodily acts and communal purity practices.