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
23 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 19min
Day 279: Blessings and Burdens (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into the rich themes of Nehemiah, highlighting those who returned to Jerusalem and what it means for identity. He explores Esther's dramatic rise and the turning tide against Haman, showcasing her clever solutions and the resulting festival of Purim. The discussion shifts to the ancestral gifts of tribes, reflecting on how family legacies shape our lives and choices. Sprinkled with wisdom from Proverbs, he contrasts fleeting pleasures with enduring treasures, offering a heartfelt prayer for healing and justice.
15 snips
Oct 5, 2025 • 21min
Day 278: Power in Weakness (2025)
Fr. Mike discusses the significance of Israel's renewal of their covenant with God in Nehemiah. He highlights Esther's bravery in confronting the king despite her fears, showing how God softened his heart. The irony of Haman being forced to honor Mordecai adds a twist to the narrative. Insightful reflections on how divine strength often works through our weaknesses remind us that our vulnerabilities can serve a greater purpose. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their unique journeys with God.
29 snips
Oct 4, 2025 • 28min
Day 277: Such a Time as This (2025)
Today's discussions highlight the powerful themes of purpose and courage found in the book of Esther. Fr. Mike elaborates on Esther's unique position to fulfill God's plan, reminding us that we too are placed 'for such a time as this.' The readings emphasize prayer, humility, and the importance of gratitude and confession. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own lives and the divine timing of their experiences, while also considering the sacrifices Esther made for her people and her willingness to face danger for a greater good.
18 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 18min
Day 276: Haman's Plan (2025)
In today's discussion, the emotional impact of Ezra reading the law captivates the Israelites, prompting heartfelt responses. Haman's sinister rise and his plot to annihilate the Jews unveils a gripping tension, while Mordecai's defiance intensifies the conflict. The prayers reflect on the duality of God's justice and mercy, encouraging an understanding of covenant identity. Fr. Mike also highlights the risks of faithful witness and the importance of courage in the face of adversity.
29 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 27min
Day 275: Esther Becomes Queen (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the challenges faced by Nehemiah as he completes the wall amidst opposition. The significance of leadership and organization in Jerusalem is highlighted through detailed genealogies. The story of Esther begins with royal banquets and a bold queen-to-be, emphasizing how she rises to power through brokenness. Additionally, reflections on Proverbs reveal the importance of justice and righteousness, warning against moral relativism. The podcast captures the timeless struggle for goodness in a flawed world.
17 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 21min
Day 274: Perseverance in Opposition (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into Nehemiah's challenging journey of rebuilding Jerusalem's walls, facing mockery and threats from Sanballat and Tobiah. He emphasizes the power of prayer combined with practical action when confronting opposition. As Nehemiah balances work with vigilance, he also addresses internal strife, restoring justice among the people. The discussion highlights themes of integrity and effective leadership. Additionally, insights from Esther's chapters shed light on rising dangers, while Proverbs reminds us of the wisdom found in discipline.
21 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 23min
Day 273: The Lord's Work (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into Nehemiah's call to rebuild Jerusalem's walls, emphasizing that every person's contribution matters in God's work. He discusses the significance of teamwork and how even the smallest tasks can be consecrated to God. The prophetic vision of Zechariah highlights the ultimate restoration of creation, while Proverbs offers wisdom on honesty and integrity. Fr. Mike encourages listeners to discern between focusing on personal responsibilities and helping others, urging everyone to participate actively in God's Kingdom.
31 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 27min
Day 272: The Call of Nehemiah (2025)
Explore Nehemiah's inspiring response to God's call, as he mourns and prays for Jerusalem's ruins. Discover the power of strategic planning and prayer in leadership amid challenges. Delve into Zechariah’s prophecies about Jerusalem’s future and the warning against false prophets. Reflect on the importance of forgiving our enemies and resisting vengeance, as emphasized in Proverbs. Join the journey through these powerful scriptures and deepen your understanding of faith and resilience.
22 snips
Sep 28, 2025 • 30min
Day 271: Israel's Foreign Wives (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the challenges of intermarriage in Israel, detailing Ezra's emotional response to the issue. He discusses the assembly's commitment to separate from foreign wives and the complex nature of these decisions. The prophet Zechariah's visions of judgment and hope, including the prophecies about Jesus as the humble king and the betrayal for thirty pieces of silver, come to life. The conversation also dives into the pitfalls of leadership, urging listeners to embody the qualities of a good shepherd.
32 snips
Sep 27, 2025 • 28min
Day 270: God's Favor with Ezra (2025)
Ezra's devotion to understanding and teaching God's law earns him divine favor. The discussion examines the significance of hypocritical fasting and how true worship reflects justice and mercy. Highlights include Ezra's journey with his returnees, the royal decree supporting temple rebuilding, and the prophetic promise of restoration for Jerusalem. Fr. Mike emphasizes the need for genuine repentance and community care, exploring how former fasts can transform into joy-filled celebrations of faith.
