The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Religion & Spirituality
History
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.
Day 133: Persevering in Trust (2022)
Fr. Mike focuses on trust today, specifically trusting God in difficult times. Like David, we need to learn to trust God in the midst of the battle, not wait until it's over. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 15, 1 Chronicles 19-20, and Psalm 3.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
19:1013/05/2022
Day 132: David and Absalom (2022)
Fr. Mike reflects on the story of David and Absalom, and points out the lack of forgiveness and repentance on both men's part. God forgives us no matter what, but without us mirroring that forgiveness, rebellion can easily rise up. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 14, 1 Chronicles 18, and Psalm 14.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
16:3812/05/2022
Day 131: Hope for the Future (2022)
Fr. Mike preaches hope for the future of those with wounded hearts as we read the stories of Tamar, Amnon, and David. No matter what's in your past - things you've done or things that have been done to you - there is abundant hope for your future because God desires to make you whole. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 13, 1 Chronicles 17, and Psalm 35.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
24:1711/05/2022
Day 130: Nathan Condemns David (2022)
Fr. Mike touches on the sins of David, and how we can see ourselves in these fallen characters in scripture. God desires a relationship with us free from sin, and although it may be painful, he brings these things into the light not out of anger, but out of love. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 12, 1 Chronicles 16, and Psalm 51.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
19:0010/05/2022
Day 129: David Commits Adultery (2022)
Fr. Mike breaks down David's tragic downfall as he commits adultery with Bathsheba and kills her husband, Uriah the Hittite. We learn that David's road to grave sin began with small acts of disobedience and selfishness. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 11, 1 Chronicles 14-15, and Psalm 32.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
22:1509/05/2022
Day 128: Mighty Men of Valor (2022)
As we continue to read about how King David expands his kingdom, Fr. Mike points out the mighty men of valor, who were men of great courage, honor and excellence that fought in Israel's battles. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 10, 1 Chronicles 13, and Psalm 31.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
16:0108/05/2022
Day 127: Kindness for the House of Saul (2022)
Fr. Mike draws our attention to David's kindness towards the house of Saul, including Jonathan's lame son Mephibosheth. We learn that even though Saul persecuted David, David continued to honor his descendants. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 9, 1 Chronicles 12, and Psalm 28.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
18:4807/05/2022
Day 126: David's Victories (2022)
Fr. Mike emphasizes how King David's victories in battle are part of his calling to establish Israel as a kingdom. He also reminds us that the recapitulation of the events we read about 1 Chronicles 10-11, is not repetitive, it served a specific purpose for the people of Israel. Today we read 2 Samuel 8, 1 Chronicles 10-11 and Psalm 60.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
17:2906/05/2022
Day 125: Covenant with David (2022)
Fr. Mike highlights the moment God makes a covenant with David, promising him an everlasting dynasty, but reserving the building of the Temple to David's son Solomon. He also teaches us how 2 Samuel 7 foreshadows the fact that the Blessed Mother is the new Ark of the Covenant. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 6-7, 1 Chronicles 9, and Psalm 89.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
32:1405/05/2022
Day 124: King David Rules (2022)
Today we read about the moment David is made king over all Israel. Fr. Mike reveals that as David begins his rule, he has both strengths and weaknesses. Today we read 2 Samuel 5, 1 Chronicles 7-8, and Psalm 27.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
23:1104/05/2022
Day 123: The Death of Ish-bosheth (2022)
Fr. Mike highlights the importance of David's reaction to the death of Ish-bosheth, Saul's son. Today we read 2 Samuel 4, 1 Chronicles 5-6, and Psalm 26.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
23:0103/05/2022
Day 122: Abner Is Killed (2022)
In today's readings, we hear about the death of Abner, and Fr. Mike points out how David publicly mourns Abner, and instructs his people to do the same. The readings are 2 Samuel 3, 1 Chronicles 3-4, and Psalm 25.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
24:3802/05/2022
Day 121: Cycle of Violence (2022)
Fr. Mike talks about how revenge and violence can become a cycle that doesn't end until someone chooses to end it. He also points out how the genealogy in 1 Chronicles reflects the genealogy of Christ. The reading for today are 2 Samuel 2, 1 Chronicles 2, and Psalm 24.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
19:2001/05/2022
Day 120: David Mourns Saul (2022)
Today we begin two new books as we read 2 Samuel 1, 1 Chronicles 1, and Psalm 13. Fr. Mike shows us how nothing in scripture is wasted space, and also points out how, through God's grace, we can move past the things that have hurt us.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
18:5030/04/2022
Day 119: David's Wisdom (2022)
In the last chapters of 1 Samuel, Fr. Mike focuses on David's wisdom in battle through his prayer and ability to unite the people of Israel. He also touches on Psalm 18 and how wonderful things can happen once we allow ourselves to be loved by God. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 29-31 and Psalm 18.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
21:1029/04/2022
Day 118: King Saul Despairs (2022)
Fr. Mike reflects on King Saul's despair in the face of trial, and how he seeks other means of comfort when he feels like God has abandoned him. God never abandons us, especially in the midst of danger. Fr. Mike invites us to place our trust in God's promise, instead of resorting to sinful acts. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 27-28 and Psalm 34.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
20:1528/04/2022
Day 117: Reverence and Faithfulness (2022)
Fr. Mike reveals how David exemplifies the virtues of reverence and faithfulness. David walks both as a man of faith and as a fallen son of God, but we continue to walk with him because we too are striving for a life with Christ. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 26 and Psalm 56.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
12:1327/04/2022
Day 116: David and Abigail (2022)
Fr. Mike reflects on the relationship between David and Abigail, and how the Lord calls David to be a better man through Abigail. Where has God put these types of relationships in our lives? Today's readings are 1 Samuel 25 and Psalm 63.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
15:4026/04/2022
Day 115: King Saul is Spared (2022)
Fr. Mike uses King Saul as an example that God does not un-choose those he has chosen, and never loses faith in us. Even if we feel someone is in power unjustly, it's God who decides who holds power, not us. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 24 and Psalm 57.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
13:0725/04/2022
Day 114: David Saves Keilah (2022)
Fr. Mike explores the actions of David before saving the city of Keilah, and how he sets an example for us while discerning God's will. He also points out how God is working constantly in our lives, even if we don't see half of what he's doing. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 23 and Psalm 54.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
12:2924/04/2022
Day 113: Broken Trust (2022)
In today's readings, we learn how Doeg the Edomite betrayed David, the priests, and the Lord. Fr. Mike explains that betrayal is painful because our hearts are deeply wounded when trust is broken. Today we read 1 Samuel 21-22 and Psalm 52.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
15:5723/04/2022
Day 112: True Friendship (2022)
Fr. Mike zeroes in on the deep friendship between Jonathan and David and the enduring power of their brotherly bond. He breaks down the different kinds of friendship according to Greek philosophy, and points out how true and virtuous friendship is so rare and special. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 20 and Psalm 142.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
17:5622/04/2022
Day 111: Saul Tries to Kill David (2022)
Fr. Mike contrasts Jonathan's brotherly friendship with David, and Saul's bitterness and envy towards David. We also learn from Psalm 59 that David still praised God in his distress as Saul tried to kill him. Today we read 1 Samuel 18-19 and Psalm 59.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
19:4421/04/2022
Day 110: David and Goliath (2022)
Today we read the epic story of how David defeats Goliath, a giant Philistine warrior. Fr. Mike points out that David's heroic courage in this battle came from David's faithfulness to God and to the small tasks entrusted to him as a shepherd. We learn that when we are faithful and courageous in small matters, we can face the giants in our bigger battles. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 17 and Psalm 12.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
18:5120/04/2022
Day 109: A Heart of Obedience (2022)
As we continue to read about Saul's vanity and disobedience, Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of the virtue of obedience in our relationship with God. He also points out how God chose David to be anointed as king because David was a man after God's own heart. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 15-16 and Psalm 61.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
17:4519/04/2022
Day 108: Saul's Vanity (2022)
Fr. Mike highlights Saul's brokenness and vanity as he makes an unlawful sacrifice and a rash oath in order to save Israel in the midst of war. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 13-14, and Psalm 58.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
21:3518/04/2022
Day 107: Samuel's Speech (2022)
As we continue reading from 1 Samuel, Fr. Mike points out how God gave the people a king like they wanted, even though it was not part of his plan. This reveals to us that even when we choose things that God does not want for us, he is still with us. The readings are 1 Samuel 11-12 and Psalm 55.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
20:4917/04/2022
Day 106: Saul Is Chosen (2022)
As we begin the Royal Kingdom period, we hear about the first king of Israel, Saul. We discover that though Saul looks like a fearless warrior, he has a major flaw. Fr. Mike also points out the significance of the readings from Proverbs. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 9-10 and Proverbs 6:23-35.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
21:0516/04/2022
Introduction to the Royal Kingdom (with Jeff Cavins) - 2022
Welcome to the Royal Kingdom period! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to set the scene for this time period. They review the major players, and why the people of Israel asked for a king.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
24:4516/04/2022
Day 105: It Is Finished (2022)
In our final reading from the Gospel of John, we hear about the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Fr. Mike points out the connection between the Paschal lamb and Jesus, and also the connection between the Last Supper and the Crucifixion. Today's readings are John 19-21 and Proverbs 6:16-22.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
25:0915/04/2022
Day 104: The Priestly Prayer of Jesus (2022)
Fr. Mike reflects on the prayer of Jesus before his sacrifice, where he not only prays for all his disciples but for us as well. We also dive into Christ's trial with Pilate, and how the actions of the Jews are much like ours today. Today's readings are John 16-18 and Proverbs 6:12-15.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
22:0614/04/2022
Day 103: Judas' Secrecy (2022)
Fr. Mike points out the secrecy in Judas' life, and highlights Jesus' words of conviction to the disciples before his death on the cross. He also explains how important it is to bring Jesus into our temptation, and to not hide our hearts from him like Judas did. Today's readings are John 13-15 and Proverbs 6:6-11.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
21:2813/04/2022
Day 102: The Death of Lazarus (2022)
Fr. Mike recalls the death of Lazarus, and how Jesus not only allowed himself to be broken by the sorrow that breaks us but also how he took that hopelessness and brought forth life. He also explains how the covenants we've seen in the Old Testament are all leading to the eternal covenant that will be instituted through Christ on the Cross. Today's readings are John 10-12 and Proverbs 6:1-5.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
25:1012/04/2022
Day 101: Signs and Wonders (2022)
Fr. Mike explains how the signs and wonders Jesus demonstrates in the Gospel point to the truth of his identity. He also touches on Proverbs 5, especially the last verse touching on discipline. Today's readings are John 7-9 and Proverbs 5:15-23.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
25:4411/04/2022
Day 100: This Is My Body (2022)
Today we read about Jesus' powerful teaching about the Eucharist. Fr. Mike invites us to believe that the Eucharist is truly the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Our Lord Jesus Christ because Jesus said it himself. Today's readings are John 4-6 and Proverbs 5:7-14.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
31:2710/04/2022
Day 99: The Word Became Flesh (2022)
Today we begin reading the Gospel of John! Fr. Mike emphasizes the significance of Jesus' divinity, and explains how the story of salvation culminates in Christ as the Messiah.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
24:4309/04/2022
Messianic Checkpoint: The Gospel of John (with Jeff Cavins) - 2022
You've made it to the first Messianic Checkpoint! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to introduce the Gospel of John. They discuss the structure of this Gospel and what makes it so different from the other three Gospels. We learn that the Gospel of John doesn't just tell us what Jesus did, but most importantly who he is.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
21:3209/04/2022
Day 98: Israel Asks for a King (2022)
Fr. Mike draws our attention to Samuel's sons who turned away from God as they ruled over Israel and how the people of Israel rejected God from being their king. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 6-8 and Psalm 86.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
21:3008/04/2022
Day 97: Samuel's Prophecy (2022)
Fr. Mike zeroes in on Samuel's dramatic prophecy and the tragic moment when the Philistines capture of the Ark of God. We learn that God is mighty and holds his people to a high standard. Today we read 1 Samuel 3-5 and Psalm 150.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
19:3107/04/2022
Day 96: Hannah's Prayer (2022)
As we begin to read the first book of Samuel, Fr. Mike highlights the miraculous birth of Samuel and how Hannah's deep longing for a son never became an idol in her heart. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 1-2 and Psalm 149.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
24:5106/04/2022
Day 95: The Sin of Benjamin (2022)
As we conclude the book of Judges, we hear about the horrifying events that occurred among the tribes of Israel in the days when "every man did what was right in his own eyes". The readings for today are Judges 19-21 and Psalm 148.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
24:5305/04/2022
Day 94: Samson and Delilah (2022)
Today we follow two stories of betrayal with Samson and Delilah and Micah and the Levite. Fr. Mike also explains why Judges is the best example of how God can use broken people to do his will. The reading are Judges 16-18 and Psalm 147.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
24:3504/04/2022
Day 93: Strengths and Weaknesses (2022)
Today, Fr. Mike begins to read Samson's story and points out that Samson, despite his physical strength, has a lot of weaknesses. The readings are Judges 12-15 and Psalm 146.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
21:1903/04/2022
Day 92: Jephthah's Vow (2022)
Today's readings are Judges 9-11, Ruth 4, and Psalm 137. In the reading from Judges, we hear about the rise and fall of Abimelech, as well as the misguided and heartbreaking vow Jephthah makes to God in return for victory over the Ammonites. We also conclude the book of Ruth with the marriage of Boaz and Ruth.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
28:1802/04/2022
Day 91: Gideon's Story (2022)
In today's reading from Judges, Fr. Mike talk about Gideon's story, and points out how the people began to worship the object Gideon had created to glorify God, instead of worshipping the living God. In Ruth, he highlights the role of kinsman-redeemer and how Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of that role. Today's readings are Judges 6-8, Ruth 3, and Psalm 135.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
27:4101/04/2022
Day 90: Ruth and Boaz (2022)
Fr. Mike highlights the life of Ruth, and what seems to be the first day of hope she's had in a long time. Sometimes it takes a long time to catch a glimmer of hope in the darkness of our lives, but Ruth reminds us that no matter what we've been through, God is always with us. Today's readings are Judges 4-5, Ruth 2, and Psalm 134.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
20:0631/03/2022
Day 89: Israel's Cycle of Disobedience (2022)
Welcome to the book of Judges! Fr. Mike foreshadows the events of Judges, and the cycle of disobedience we'll continue to see Israel go through. He also gives some context on the book of Ruth, and how we can find grace within the frustrating moments of Scripture. Today's readings are Judges 1-3, Ruth 1, and Psalm 133.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
26:4430/03/2022
Day 88: Joshua's Last Words to Israel (2022)
Fr. Mike focuses on the last words Joshua speaks to the people of Israel, and how he calls them to choose the Lord above all other things. We all have idols in our lives that take us away from God; how are we choosing to love Christ above these idols today? Today's readings are Joshua 22-24, and Psalm 132.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
21:4629/03/2022
Day 87: God Keeps His Promises (2022)
Fr. Mike reminds us that God keeps his promises, even if it takes a little longer than we thought. Just like the people of Israel received everything the Lord had promised them, we too will receive everything the Lord has promised us, even in the midst of hardship and temptation. Today's readings are Joshua 19-21, and Psalm 131.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
19:0528/03/2022
Day 86: The Real Presence of God (2022)
Fr. Mike reminds us that God is present with us in every step of our journey, even the seemingly mundane aspects. He also encourages us to not be discouraged on this journey, but to focus on relating to the historic stories of our biblical brothers and sisters. Today's readings are Joshua 15-18, and Psalm 130.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
20:3527/03/2022