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
53 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 21min
Day 9: Sodom and Gomorrah (2026)
Fr. Mike delves into the dramatic tale of Sodom and Gomorrah, exploring Abraham's passionate plea for justice. He shares Lot's hospitality amidst chaos and the striking consequences of divine judgment. The discussion shifts to Job's heartfelt lament over suffering, highlighting the struggle between human agony and divine justice. Listeners are encouraged to seek wisdom as a vital path to understanding God. Intriguing reflections on difficult biblical narratives reveal deeper truths about morality and the complexity of human experience.
51 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 19min
Day 8: The Surrender of Abraham (2026)
This discussion delves into the powerful theme of surrender, highlighting how God transforms Abram into Abraham. It explores the ramifications of Sarai's decision to involve Hagar in their quest for children. The angel's message promises a future for Ishmael, while the concept of circumcision emerges as a significant sign of commitment to God's covenant. Additionally, Job's struggle with suffering is examined, revealing the complexities of despair and misunderstanding from friends. A thought-provoking warning from Proverbs invites listeners to seek wisdom.
65 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 19min
Day 7: God's Covenant with Abram (2026)
Fr. Mike explores the profound significance of God's covenant with Abram, emphasizing divine love and commitment. He recounts Abram’s daring rescue of Lot and the mysterious blessing from Melchizedek, highlighting themes of generosity. The complex nature of suffering is examined through Job's deep lament, as he questions the purpose of his pain. Additionally, warnings against the dangers of ill-gotten gains are presented in Proverbs, prompting reflection on morality and justice in our pursuits.
96 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 18min
Day 6: Trust in the Lord (2026)
Fr. Mike dives into the stories of Abram and Job, highlighting their journeys of faith amidst brokenness. He explores Abram's initial fear in Egypt and the tension with Lot over land. In Job's tale, we witness profound loss and unwavering integrity, even as he faces profound suffering and challenges from friends. The podcast emphasizes the importance of trusting God through trials, inviting listeners to emulate the faith of these biblical figures and seek wisdom as they embark on their spiritual journey.
94 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 23min
Introduction to the Patriarchs (with Jeff Cavins) (2026)
Joining Fr. Mike, Jeff Cavins, a Bible scholar and creator of the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, explores the pivotal transition into the Patriarchs period. They delve into Genesis 12-50, highlighting key figures like Abraham and Jacob, and the literary device of toledot that narrows the narrative focus. Jeff discusses God's promises to Abram and the intricate dynamics within these biblical families. The conversation emphasizes human brokenness and God's unwavering faithfulness, encouraging deeper engagement with Scripture as a tool for personal growth and understanding.
80 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 17min
Day 5: Tower of Babel (2026)
Today's discussion dives into the intriguing story of the Tower of Babel, exploring how the people's ambition led to confusion of language. Fr. Mike highlights the dangers of seeking power over holiness, using Nimrod as a cautionary figure. We also reflect on the importance of aiming for God's glory rather than fame. Additionally, the lineage to Abram and Sarai is introduced, setting the stage for future insights. Listeners are encouraged to pursue true excellence and sanctity, inspired by examples like St. Maximilian Kolbe.
76 snips
Jan 4, 2026 • 20min
Day 4: The Flood (2026)
Fr. Mike delves into the powerful story of Noah and the Flood, highlighting God’s covenant and the stark realities of human brokenness. The devastation of the flood claims all life except those in the ark, underscoring themes of renewal and grace. He reflects on Noah's post-flood offerings and the troubling dynamics within Noah’s family, including the curse on Canaan. Through prayer and Psalm 1, Fr. Mike emphasizes the need for divine grace in the face of sin, inviting listeners to contemplate their own journey of faith.
74 snips
Jan 3, 2026 • 18min
Day 3: Noah's Ark (2026)
Fr. Mike explores the significance of Noah's genealogy and God's decision to send a flood due to human wickedness. He contrasts the righteous line of Seth with the fallen line of Cain, highlighting moral decline through intermarriage. Listeners learn about divine instructions for building the ark and the enduring themes of mercy in Psalm 136. Ultimately, he encourages emulating Noah's faithfulness amid adversity, inviting everyone to walk closely with God despite the challenges of the world.
85 snips
Jan 2, 2026 • 24min
Day 2: The Fall of Adam and Eve (2026)
Fr. Mike uncovers the subtle challenge of the serpent and its impact on Adam and Eve's trust in God. He explores the themes of love and sacrifice through the stories of Cain and Abel, highlighting the stark contrast in their offerings. Reflecting on the consequences of sin, he emphasizes God’s care and redemption even amidst brokenness. Fr. Mike invites listeners to examine their own offerings to God, advocating for giving our best rather than leftovers, and provides insight into mastering temptation in moments of anger.
69 snips
Jan 1, 2026 • 24min
Start Here: Introduction to the Early World (with Jeff Cavins)
Jeff Cavins, a Catholic Bible teacher and creator of the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, joins Fr. Mike Schmitz to kickstart a journey through Scripture. They explore the Early World period, emphasizing the unique poetic structure of Genesis 1-11 and its significance for modern readers. Cavins discusses the creation pattern, the fall of humanity, and the implications of sin on relationships. They also delve into the flood narrative as a pivotal moment in salvation history, highlighting hope amid brokenness.
