The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
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.
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bibleinayear.fireside.fmEpisodes
Day 82: The Valley of Achor (2025)
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Fr. Mike explains the meaning of circumcision for Israel's relationship with God. He also underscore the gravity of Achan's sin, and how the Valley of Achor symbolizes shame that is painful but not hopeless. Today we read Joshua 5-7 and Psalm 125.
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.
2025-03-23Link to episode
Day 81: Israel Crosses the Jordan (2025)
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As we begin our reading of the book Joshua, Fr. Mike draws our attention to God's power as he parts the waters of the Jordan river, allowing the Israelites to walk across on dry land. We learn that following God often requires great courage and trust. Today's readings are Joshua 1-4, and Psalm 123.
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.
2025-03-22Link to episode
Introduction to Conquest & Judges (with Jeff Cavins) (2025)
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Congratulations on completing the Desert Wanderings period! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to introduce the fifth biblical period, Conquest and Judges. They discuss the trials the Israelites face as they enter the Promised Land. We learn that the book of Joshua and the book of Judges are characterized by Israel's unfaithfulness, destruction, and repentance.
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.
2025-03-22Link to episode
Day 80: Cities of Refuge (2025)
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As we finish our journey through the Desert Wanderings, Fr. Mike zeroes in on the purpose of cities of refuge for the Israelites and the strong bond of community that they shared and maintained as the tribes grew. Today's readings are Numbers 35-36, Deuteronomy 34, and Psalm 121.
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.
2025-03-21Link to episode
Day 79: Psalms of Ascent (2025)
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Today, Fr. Mike points out how the boundaries of the land of Canaan in Numbers remind us that the Promised Land is not a nice idea, but a real tangible place. He also reveals that Psalm 120 begins the Psalms of Ascent, or the Psalms that people would pray as they went up to the Temple to worship. The readings are Numbers 34, Deuteronomy 33, and Psalm 120.
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.
2025-03-20Link to episode
Day 78: The Song of Moses (2025)
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In today's readings, we trace the route of the Israelites in Numbers and hear the song of Moses in Deuteronomy. Fr. Mike reflects on a hard lesson from these passages; that God will allow us to choose something other than him, even though it hurts us. The readings are Numbers 33, Deuteronomy 32, and Psalm 118.
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.
2025-03-19Link to episode
Day 77: God Is Faithful (2025)
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Fr. Mike points out why it's important that the tribes of Reuben and Gad agree to fight in Numbers 32 and also reflects on how God knows that his people will be faithless, and yet He remains faithful to them. The readings are Numbers 32, Deuteronomy 31, and Psalm 117.
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.
2025-03-18Link to episode
Day 76: War Against Midian (2025)
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Fr. Mike breaks down the battle against Midian and explains why God would allow destruction and warfare that can seem brutal. He also highlights how we can learn from Israel's weakness by destroying the things in our lives that lead us away from God. Today's readings are Numbers 31, Deuteronomy 30, and Psalm 116.
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.
2025-03-17Link to episode
Day 75: The Keeping of Vows (2025)
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Fr. Mike gives us some background around the feast days of the Old Testament and emphasizes the importance of vows, which are serious promises made with God. Today's readings are Numbers 29-30, Deuteronomy 29, and Psalm 113.
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.
2025-03-16Link to episode
Day 74: Joshua Appointed (2025)
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Fr. Mike discusses the inheritance given to Zelophehad's daughters. He also highlights the journey of Joshua as Moses' successor, and how Christ is the fulfillment of Joshua's leadership. Today's readings are Numbers 27-28, Deuteronomy 28, and Psalm 112.
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.
2025-03-15Link to episode
Day 73: Inheritance of Land (2025)
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Fr. Mike explains why it was important to take a census at different points of the people of Israel in the Old Testament. We also learn that the Tribe of Levi is the only tribe that doesn't get an inheritance of land, because they're receiving something much greater. Today's readings are Numbers 26, Deuteronomy 27, and Psalm 111.
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.
2025-03-14Link to episode
Day 72: The Plains of Moab (2025)
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Fr. Mike describes the sinful events of Israel in Moab, and why God chooses to bless the Israelites through Balaam in spite of their sin. Today's readings are Numbers 24-25, Deuteronomy 26, and Psalm 107.
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.
2025-03-13Link to episode
Day 71: The Source of the Law (2025)
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Fr. Mike shares more details surrounding the Old Testament laws, including why God would give us these laws in the first place. Today's readings are Numbers 23, Deuteronomy 24-25, and Psalm 106.
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.
2025-03-12Link to episode
Day 70: The Offense of Balaam (2025)
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Fr. Mike dives into the character of Balaam, and why his offense was so treacherous towards his relationship with God. Today's readings are Numbers 22, Deuteronomy 23, and Psalm 105.
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.
2025-03-11Link to episode
Day 69: The Bronze Serpent (2025)
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Fr. Mike explains how the bronze serpent is a prefiguration of Jesus on the Cross. We also continue to learn how God's laws in Deuteronomy redefine the social and sexual norms for the Israelites to teach them about the dignity of every human person. Today's readings are Numbers 21, Deuteronomy 22, and Psalm 102.
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.
2025-03-10Link to episode
Day 68: The Waters of Meribah (2025)
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Fr. Mike describes the miracle of the waters of Meribah that God performs for his people in the wilderness. He also explains the logic behind the laws God gives his people to restore their morality as they learn to live in relationship with each other. Today we read Numbers 19-20, Deuteronomy 21, and Psalm 100.
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.
2025-03-09Link to episode
Day 67: God's Justice and Refuge (2025)
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Fr. Mike breaks down God's divine judgement, and the refuge he offers to those who are faithful to him. Today's readings are Numbers 18, Deuteronomy 19-20, and Psalm 99.
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.
2025-03-08Link to episode
Day 66: Forbidden Forms of Worship (2025)
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Fr. Mike discusses the forbidden forms of worship explained in Numbers 17, and why it's important for us to understand how God desired to be worshipped in the Old Testament. Today's readings are Numbers 17, Deuteronomy 17-18, and Psalm 98.
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.
2025-03-07Link to episode
Day 65: Revolt Against Moses (2025)
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Fr. Mike dives into the recurring issue of the Israelites rebelling against God and remaining stuck in their past as we read about the revolt of Korah, Dathan and Abiram against Moses and Aaron. Today's readings are Numbers 16, Deuteronomy 15-16, and Psalm 97.
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.
2025-03-06Link to episode
Day 64: Consequences of Sin (2025)
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Fr. Mike explains why God would give the Israelites such drastic consequences for their sin, and how it reveals his divine plan and infinite mercy. Today's readings are Numbers 15, Deuteronomy 13-14, and Psalm 96.
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.
2025-03-05Link to episode
Day 63: Israel's Rebellion (2025)
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In our reading of Numbers 14 today, Fr. Mike highlights how the rebellion of the Israelites which was marked by distrust and fear, will have consequences for their children. We also read today Deuteronomy 12, and Psalm 95.
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.
2025-03-04Link to episode
Day 62: Spies Sent to Canaan (2025)
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As we read Numbers 12 and 13, Deuteronomy 11, and Psalm 94, Fr. Mike reflects on the conflict between Aaron, Miriam, and Moses and explains why Miriam appears to be the only one punished. He also mentions the lack of trust the people continue to have in God, as they discover that the land of Canaan is occupied by a seemingly stronger force.
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.
2025-03-03Link to episode
Day 61: Complaining in the Desert (2025)
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Fr. Mike discusses how the Israelites complaining against God and believing they were better off in Egypt reflects our own inclination to be enslaved by sin. Today's readings are Numbers 11, Deuteronomy 10, and Psalm 33.
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.
2025-03-02Link to episode
Day 60: Intercessory Prayer (2025)
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Fr. Mike makes note of how the tribes of Israel travel with Judah (praise) leading the way, and makes note of how Moses intercedes for the people and acts as a mediator between God and man. Today's readings are Numbers 10, Deuteronomy 9, and Psalm 10.
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.
2025-03-01Link to episode
Day 59: Obligations to God (2025)
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As we read Numbers 8-9, Deuteronomy 8, and Psalm 93, Fr. Mike reflects on how the Israelites were expected to celebrate Passover in all circumstances, learned to trust that God would lead them to where they needed to go, and needed to remember God in times of abundance as well as darkness.
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.
2025-02-28Link to episode
Day 58: A Chosen People (2025)
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Fr. Mike breaks down the purpose of the various offerings during the dedication of the tabernacle. We are also reminded that the people of Israel are God's chosen people because they have a key mission. Today's readings are Numbers 7, Deuteronomy 7, and Psalm 92.
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.
2025-02-27Link to episode
Day 57: Hear, O Israel (2025)
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Fr. Mike explains the significance behind the Nazarite vow and the priestly blessing in Numbers 6. We also learn why the Great Command revealed in Deuteronomy 6 is the foundation of all other commandments. Today we pray Psalm 91.
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.
2025-02-26Link to episode
Day 56: Jealous Husbands (2025)
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Fr. Mike explains how God elevates the dignity of women by providing new laws around husbands accusing their wives of unfaithfulness. Today we read from Numbers 5, Deuteronomy 5, and Psalm 90.
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.
2025-02-25Link to episode
Day 55: Obedience to God (2025)
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Fr. Mike underscores the importance of obeying God as he reads from Numbers 4 and Deuteronomy 4. We also read Psalm 88 and learn how it foreshadows the darkness Christ endured on the cross.
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.
2025-02-24Link to episode
Day 54: The Tribe of Levi (2025)
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Fr. Mike clarifies some questions surrounding the Tribe of Levi and talks about what it means to be held to a higher standard as a leader in your community. Numbers 3, Deuteronomy 3, and Psalm 87.
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.
2025-02-23Link to episode
Day 53: The Twelve Tribes of Israel (2025)
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Fr. Mike talks about the twelve tribes of Israel and explains why the book of Numbers introduces them based on the number of decedents they each had. Today we read Numbers 2, Deuteronomy 2, and Psalm 85.
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.
2025-02-22Link to episode
Day 52: Israel Continues to Journey (2025)
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Fr. Mike kicks off our reading of the book of Numbers by explaining where Israel is at in their journey with the Lord, and how they are keeping him at the center of it all (literally). Today we read from Numbers 1, Deuteronomy 1, and Psalm 84.
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.
2025-02-21Link to episode
Introduction to Desert Wanderings (with Jeff Cavins) (2025)
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Congratulations, you've completed the Egypt & Exodus period and you've arrived at the Desert Wanderings ! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to provide us the context for the book of Numbers and the book of Deuteronomy. They discuss how this period is marked by Israel's rebellion against God as they wander in the desert for forty years striving to regain their narrative and identity.
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.
2025-02-21Link to episode
Day 51: Israel's Worship of God (2025)
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As we finish our reading of Exodus, Fr. Mike recaps the events of Israel and how God shaped his people in worship. Today's readings are Exodus 39-40, Leviticus 27, and Psalm 83.
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.
2025-02-20Link to episode
Day 50: Sacrificial Offerings (2025)
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Fr. Mike encourages us to look at how we can increase our generosity to God and neighbor, inspired by the sacrificial offerings of Israel. Our readings for today are Exodus 37-38, Leviticus 26, and Psalm 82.
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.
2025-02-19Link to episode
Day 49: The Year of Jubilee (2025)
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Fr. Mike explains why God repeats some of his instructions for worship and lays out the purpose for the year of jubilee. The readings are Exodus 35-36, Leviticus 25, and Psalm 81.
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.
2025-02-18Link to episode
Day 48: God's Presence (2025)
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Fr. Mike reflects on God's presence to his people, and how that makes his chosen people distinct. Today's readings are Exodus 33-34, Leviticus 24, and Psalm 80.
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.
2025-02-17Link to episode
Day 47: The Golden Calf (2025)
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In today's reading from Exodus 32, Fr. Mike shows us how when we become uncertain, we immediate try to take control of the situation, and build up idols in our hearts. We also read Leviticus 23 and Psalm 79.
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.
2025-02-16Link to episode
Day 46: Set Apart for God (2025)
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Fr. Mike points out how blessing something sets it apart for the purposes of God, and it is no longer meant for ordinary uses. So when we are filled with the spirit of God, our daily task becomes extraordinary, because it is consecrated to God. Today's readings are Exodus 30-31, Leviticus 22, and Psalm 115.
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.
2025-02-15Link to episode
Day 45: Pray for Priests (2025)
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As we read Exodus 29, Leviticus 21, and Psalm 119:121-176, Fr. Mike points out how God calls broken and imperfect men to his holy priesthood, and asks each of us to say a special prayer for priests today.
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.
2025-02-14Link to episode
Day 44: Priestly Garments (2025)
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Fr. Mike explains how the holy garments for priests described in Exodus 27-28, are intentionally designed to glorify God and highlight his beauty. He also gives us an insight into the heart of the priesthood. We read today from Exodus 27-28, Leviticus 20, and Psalm 119: 57-120.
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.
2025-02-13Link to episode
Day 43: The Ark of the Covenant (2025)
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Fr. Mike provides us with a mental picture of the ark of the covenant and reminds that the small details of worship matter as we read Exodus 25-26, Leviticus 19, and Psalm 119:1-56
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.
2025-02-12Link to episode
Day 42: Moral Laws (2025)
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Fr. Mike breaks down the three types of law we find in Leviticus, including moral laws regarding sexuality. Today's readings are Exodus 24, Leviticus 17-18, and Psalm 78.
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.
2025-02-11Link to episode
Day 41: The Day of Atonement (2025)
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Fr. Mike reveals the parallels between the day of atonement and the sacrifice of the mass. We learn how the temple worship practices of the old testament foreshadow the worship practices of the Catholic Church. Today's readings are Exodus 23, Leviticus 16, and Psalm 77.
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.
2025-02-10Link to episode
Day 40: Laws of Justice (2025)
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Today, Fr. Mike explains how God's heart is revealed through his commandments, and how we are all called to a life of justice, as we read from Exodus 22, Leviticus 15, and Psalm 76.
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.
2025-02-09Link to episode
Day 39: Slavery in the Old Testament (2025)
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Fr. Mike gives us the historical context around the commandments on slavery to help us better grasp the concept of slavery in the Old Testament. Today we read from Exodus 21, Leviticus 14, and Psalm 75.
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.
2025-02-08Link to episode
Day 38: The Ten Commandments (2025)
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Fr. Mike explains the meaning of a covenant with God, and how The Ten Commandments strengthen this relationship. Today's readings are Exodus 19-20, Leviticus 13, and Psalm 74.
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.
2025-02-07Link to episode
Day 37: The Mystical Works of God (2025)
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Today's episode dives into the mystical works of God, and what our approach should be for explaining them in the natural world, as we read from Exodus 17-18, Leviticus 12, and Psalm 73.
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.
2025-02-06Link to episode
Day 36: Manna from Heaven (2025)
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Fr. Mike talks about how God trains the Israelites to trust him in the wilderness, and how we can grow in our own faithfulness to the Lord. Today we read Exodus 15-16, Leviticus 11, and Psalm 71.
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.
2025-02-05Link to episode
Day 35: Crossing the Red Sea (2025)
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Fr. Mike explains how all the rules of worship in Leviticus 10 point to the reality that God is holy. We also continue journeying through Exodus 13-14 and Psalm 53 and learn how God fought for the salvation for his people through the crossing of the red sea.
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.
2025-02-04Link to episode