Summary of "BONUS: Preparing for the Bible in a Year Journey" Episode

Podcast Title: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Release Date: December 29, 2024
Duration: Approximately 35 minutes

1. Introduction and Gratitude

Fr. Mike Schmitz opens the episode by introducing a special bonus episode aimed at relaunching the Bible in a Year journey. He extends heartfelt thanks to listeners for their interest and participation:

“Thank you for even being interested... God is doing something in your heart.” [00:04]

He emphasizes that finding the podcast is a significant spiritual movement within the listener, highlighting God's active role in their journey.

2. Purpose and 'Why' Behind the Podcast

Fr. Mike delves into the core reasons for creating the Bible in a Year podcast, addressing common challenges faced during the year-long commitment:

“We want you to join us this upcoming year. Over the course of this last year, we've learned some things.” [00:34]

He explains that the podcast serves as a remedy to navigate a "good but broken" world by aligning listeners' perspectives with God's through Scripture. The aim is to help listeners:

• Understand God's overarching story
• Discover their place within that story
• Reshape their worldview to see through God's eyes

“The Bible reshapes our lens... to love how God loves.” [08:30]

3. The Great Adventure Bible Timeline and Reading Plan

Fr. Mike introduces the Great Adventure Bible Timeline developed by Jeff Cavins, which forms the foundation of the reading plan:

“Jeff Cavins created the Great Adventure Bible Timeline... to get the whole story.” [10:15]

This timeline breaks down the Bible into 14 time periods across 16 books, ensuring a cohesive narrative flow. Ascension adapted this framework to include all books contextually, addressing the common issue of reading sections like Leviticus and the prophets out of context.

He highlights the utility of the reading plan available on Ascension's website, which aids in tracking daily progress:

“I had to print it off more than once... it's so satisfying to realize you're getting somewhere every single day.” [14:20]

4. Developing Consistent Habits

Emphasizing the importance of consistency over intensity, Fr. Mike offers practical advice for integrating the podcast into daily life:

“Pick a time you can do on your average day... integrate the podcast into your daily life.” [16:05]

He suggests creating dedicated spaces and routines, such as:

• Listening while engaging in daily activities (e.g., morning routine, commute)
• Combining listening with reading and note-taking

“Consistency beats intensity every single time.” [30:45]

5. Overcoming Challenges: Imperfection and Perseverance

Fr. Mike addresses the inevitability of missing days and the importance of perseverance:

“Not being perfect is not a problem because perfection is not the expectation for us.” [25:10]

He shares encouragement to resume the journey without self-judgment:

“If you miss a day... just press play and pick up where you left off.” [28:50]

Fr. Mike reinforces that failure is not final and maintaining the 'why' is crucial for long-term commitment.

6. Tools and Resources to Aid the Journey

To support listeners, Fr. Mike outlines several resources available:

• Bible in a Year Reading Plan: Structured daily readings following the Great Adventure Bible Timeline.

• Bible in a Year Companion: Offers key events, figures, reflection questions, prayers, images, and maps to deepen understanding.

• Insight Journal: A hardcover journal designed to capture personal insights and reflections from daily readings.

“The Insight Journal was created with the idea that God wants you to capture what he's telling you.” [23:30]

Additionally, Fr. Mike mentions the Bible in a Year Notebook for noting thoughts and reflections, enhancing engagement with the Scripture.

7. Expansion to Spanish Resources

Fr. Mike announces the launch of the Bible in a Year podcast in Spanish, expanding accessibility:

“This year, the year 2022, we are also presenting the Bible in a Year in Spanish... an incredible gift.” [32:15]

This initiative includes:

• A Spanish reading plan aligned with the Great Adventure Bible Timeline
• Different narrators and insights tailored for Spanish-speaking audiences
• Resources beneficial for both native speakers and those learning Spanish

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the Spanish version via Ascension's website.

8. Final Encouragement and Closing Thoughts

In concluding the episode, Fr. Mike offers heartfelt encouragement, urging listeners to embrace the journey without striving for perfection:

“Don't hold yourself to that. God loves you... just press play.” [33:50]

He expresses excitement about continuing the journey together, fostering a supportive community aimed at spiritual growth and transformation through consistent engagement with Scripture.

“I know my heart needs to be penetrated by God's word. I cannot wait to re begin and I hope that you join me for this upcoming journey.” [35:00]

Fr. Mike ends with a prayerful note, affirming his commitment to supporting listeners throughout the Bible in a Year journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Purpose-Driven Approach: Understanding the 'why' behind reading the Bible fosters perseverance.

• Structured Reading Plan: The Great Adventure Bible Timeline ensures a coherent narrative experience.

• Consistency Over Perfection: Establishing daily habits and accepting imperfection enhances long-term commitment.

• Comprehensive Resources: Tools like the Companion, Insight Journal, and Spanish resources provide additional support.

• Community and Support: Engaging with the podcast community strengthens individual spiritual growth.

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe, utilize the provided resources, and embark on a transformative year-long journey through the Bible with Fr. Mike Schmitz.