

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

11 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 23min
Day 184: Hezekiah Reigns (2025)
Explore the righteous reign of Hezekiah as he boldly restores true worship in Judah. He dismantles the false idols left by his father, showing that our past doesn't dictate our future. The podcast highlights Hezekiah's unwavering faith amidst the looming threats from the Assyrians. With a focus on the importance of genuine worship and prayer, listeners are reminded of the power of atonement and trust in God during challenging times. It's a fascinating dive into history where faith meets resilience!

36 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 27min
Introduction to the Exile (with Jeff Cavins) (2025)
Jeff Cavins, a Catholic Bible scholar and creator of The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, joins to discuss the significant Exile period. They explore how Judah's physical exile mirrored their spiritual struggles, leading to healing and restoration. The conversation dives into the historical context of the northern tribes and the role of prophets, connecting these themes to New Testament narratives. Cavins also emphasizes the importance of rekindling faith during challenging times, highlighting community support and the power of prayer.

20 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 28min
Day 183: Israel Falls to Assyria (2025)
A significant moment in history unfolds as Assyria destroys the Northern Kingdom, leading to the exile of the ten tribes. Fr. Mike connects this event to Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman, offering deeper insights into biblical narratives. The prophetic messages from Micah foreshadow the birth of Jesus, emphasizing themes of justice and repentance. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the consequences of idolatry and the hope of divine mercy amidst the turmoil of exile.

21 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 26min
Day 182: The Inescapable God (2025)
Congratulations on reaching the halfway mark in your Bible journey! This discussion dives into King Ahaz's unfaithfulness and how his reliance on Assyrian support alters religious practices. The prophet Micah brings a powerful message of judgment intertwined with hope for restoration. The themes from Psalm 139 emphasize God's inescapable presence. The narrative reflects on faith during challenging times and the promise of divine guidance amid chaos. A call to prayer underscores the importance of support through spiritual journeys.

30 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 26min
Day 181: Jonah and the Whale (2025)
Explore the fascinating tale of Jonah, the reluctant prophet who wrestles with his mission amidst idolatry and conspiracy in Israel. Discover his dramatic experience at sea and his heartfelt prayer from inside a giant fish. Reflect on themes of obedience, mercy, and divine compassion, particularly towards Nineveh. The story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by modern-day prophets and the enduring message of love and repentance.

14 snips
Jun 29, 2025 • 24min
Day 180: Giving Time to God (2025)
As the book of Amos wraps up, there's a powerful message about giving our time and hearts to God. Fr. Mike highlights how counting down to our personal freedom can sour our worship. The podcast also delves into the moral decay of Israel during Jeroboam II's reign. Amos's visions stress the need for justice and the consequences of forsaking God. Ultimately, it offers a hopeful call to return to faith and gratitude as we consider the blessings of divine restoration.

13 snips
Jun 28, 2025 • 27min
Day 179: Blinded by Comfort (2025)
Fr. Mike highlights Amos' crucial warning about the dangers of prioritizing comfort over compassion. He connects this message to today, urging listeners to remain aware of those in need. The discussion dives into Jehu’s ruthless purge of idol worshipers, emphasizing the complexity of divine approval amidst his violence. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own faith and accountability in justice, making this conversation both timely and thought-provoking.

5 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 23min
Day 178: Called Back (2025)
Fr. Mike explores Jehu's half-hearted commitment to God and emphasizes the need for complete devotion. The dire warnings from the prophet Amos remind listeners about the urgency of returning to faith before it's too late. The narrative of 2 Kings reveals the brutality of Jehu's campaign against Baal worshippers, underscoring the heavy price of Israel's sins. Themes of accountability, true worship, and the necessity of repentance resonate throughout the discussion, urging everyone to reflect on their own spiritual journeys.

19 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 27min
Day 177: Return, O Israel (2025)
Fr. Mike explores David's heartfelt prayer in Psalm 109, reflecting on God’s unwavering love for His people. Listeners dive into the dramatic anointing of Jehu and the brutal downfall of Jezebel, showcasing themes of divine justice and mercy. As Israel faces impending destruction, the journey highlights the balance between judgment and compassion. The podcast also reveals the promise of redemption for those who return to God, emphasizing the beauty of faith amidst unfaithfulness.

17 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 21min
Day 176: Choosing Eternal Life (2025)
Fr. Mike discusses the vital role of Old Testament prophets in shaping salvation history. He emphasizes the importance of building our lives in alignment with God's will rather than against it. The narrative includes a miraculous restoration linked to Elisha and lessons from the tumultuous reigns of Jehoram and Ahaziah, highlighting the consequences of idolatry and moral failings. Ultimately, listeners are urged to reflect on their choices and the eternal impact these decisions have on their spiritual journey.


