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
26 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 24min
Day 288: Battling Against Gossip (2025)
Explore the vital role of wisdom in combating gossip and temptation. Fr. Mike highlights the historical context of the Jews' courageous battles, emphasizing prayer for guidance. He contrasts true wisdom with mere cleverness, advocating for prudence in speech and thoughts. The power of silence is praised, while practical advice warns against repeating harmful words. With a reflection on applying biblical principles to modern spiritual battles, this discussion inspires a journey towards virtue and thoughtful living.
17 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 28min
Day 287: Eleazar's Sacrifice (2025)
Fr. Mike discusses Eleazar's heroic sacrifice and the painful reality of family members straying from faith. He reflects on the political chaos following Alexander's rule and how broken peace terms led to conflict. Sirach provides insight into God’s justice, urging focus on wisdom and repentance. The tension between human frailty and divine mercy is explored, alongside practical advice on generosity and speech. Ultimately, there's a heartfelt call for prayer for those who might be lost, infusing the episode with hope and encouragement.
26 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 27min
Day 286: The Battle to Choose God (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the struggles of Judas Maccabeus and the quest for religious freedom, stressing the battle is over the right to worship God. He emphasizes the influence of virtuous friends for personal growth and the importance of choosing good over evil. The discussion includes reflections on how one's choices can lead to eternal consequences and the significance of self-discipline. Listeners are encouraged to embrace wisdom and seek a deeper commitment to faith.
33 snips
Oct 12, 2025 • 28min
Day 285: Story of Hanukkah (2025)
Explore the inspiring victory of Judas Maccabeus as he leads his people during the battles recounted in 1 Maccabees. Delve into the origins of Hanukkah and the deep significance behind its eight-day celebration. Fr. Mike reflects on the fleeting nature of fame, urging listeners to prioritize humility and divine wisdom over worldly accolades. Practical guidance from Sirach emphasizes thoughtful actions, discernment in relationships, and the importance of seeking God's providence.
15 snips
Oct 11, 2025 • 27min
Day 284: Near Occasion of Sin (2025)
Fr. Mike discusses guidance from Proverbs and Sirach, emphasizing their relevance in daily life. He explores the early victories of Judas Maccabeus against overwhelming odds and highlights Israel's united prayerful response. The conversation turns to avoiding sin, with insights on steering clear of temptation and the importance of prudence in relationships. He underscores the significance of training children well and avoiding the pitfalls of debt. The reflections tie these teachings to the need for grace and wisdom in our lives.
30 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 26min
Day 283: Mattathias Attacks (2025)
Explore the zealous actions of Mattathias as he confronts apostasy and defends his faith. Delve into the complexities of righteous anger and the consequences it brings. Learn about the importance of caring for the needy and testing friendships, as emphasized in Sirach. Fr. Mike highlights the value of a good name and the rewards of seeking wisdom. Reflect on the fervent call for integrity and repentance, along with Mattathias's final exhortation to his sons as they prepare for battle. Aiding the poor is a theme woven throughout the discussion.
46 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 32min
Day 282: Antiochus Desecrates the Temple (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the harrowing persecution of the Jews under Antiochus Epiphanes, detailing the desecration of the Temple and the brutal enforcement of Gentile customs. The discussion highlights the Maccabean Revolt's historical context and Jewish resilience. Transitioning to Sirach, he emphasizes the importance of honoring parents, preparing for trials, and the gifts of wisdom that come from a deep reverence for the Lord. The podcast underscores the enduring significance of faith amidst adversity and the courage of those who chose steadfastness over compromise.
22 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 32min
Introduction to the Maccabean Revolt (with Jeff Cavins) - 2025
Join Jeff Cavins, a Catholic biblical teacher renowned for his insights into the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, as he explores the Maccabean Revolt. He discusses the significance of this period in salvation history and the heroic acts of the Maccabees against Greek oppression. Expect stories of Antiochus Epiphanes' brutal policies, the origins of Hanukkah, and the poignant martyrdom of a mother and her seven sons. Cavins also highlights the importance of deuterocanonical books and how this era sets the stage for the New Testament.
22 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 27min
Day 281: Good and Evil (2025)
Fr. Mike explores Nehemiah's reforms to restore temple worship and confronts issues of intermarriage and corruption. He delves into Malachi’s messages about God's unwavering love and the priests' polluted offerings. The discussion highlights the call for fidelity and the condemnation of divorce, along with prophetic visions of hope and judgment. Lastly, he reflects on human unfaithfulness and the delicate balance of divine love and justice, urging listeners to return to God with renewed hearts.
19 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 23min
Day 280: The People of the Covenant (2025)
Fr. Mike reflects on the resilience of the Jewish people through stories of Esther and Nehemiah, highlighting their journey of faith. He discusses the significance of Purim and how customs evolve while retaining core meanings. The podcast emphasizes the importance of restraint in victory and connects historical struggles to contemporary faith. Fr. Mike urges listeners to trust in God's promises, reminding Christians of their connection to the covenant people. Through scripture and prayer, he encourages faith amidst uncertainty.
