The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Episode: Day 100: This Is My Body (2025) Summary

Release Date: April 10, 2025

In the 100th episode of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves deep into pivotal chapters of the Gospel of John—specifically chapters 4, 5, and 6—alongside selected passages from Proverbs. This milestone episode not only marks a significant point in the 365-day journey through the Bible but also offers profound insights into understanding Jesus' mission and the foundational aspects of Catholic faith.

1. Milestone Celebration: Day 100

Fr. Mike opens the episode with heartfelt appreciation for the listeners, acknowledging their dedication in reaching the one-third mark of the Bible in a Year journey. He emphasizes the transformative impact of the podcast, aiming to help listeners not just read but deeply understand the Bible's cohesive narrative.

Notable Quote:

"Today is day 100 and we have the second day of our messianic checkpoint."
(00:XX)

2. Scriptural Readings

a. Proverbs 5:7-14

Fr. Mike begins with a passage from Proverbs, highlighting themes of wisdom, discipline, and the consequences of forsaking righteous paths. This Old Testament wisdom sets the stage for the New Testament discussions, drawing parallels between ancient teachings and Jesus' revelations.

b. Gospel of John Chapters 4, 5, and 6

Fr. Mike meticulously guides listeners through these chapters, each replete with significant events and teachings of Jesus:

• John 4: The encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, showcasing Jesus' outreach beyond traditional Jewish boundaries and His offer of "living water."

• John 5: Healing on the Sabbath, illustrating Jesus' authority and His declaration of unity with the Father.

• John 6: The feeding of the 5,000, walking on water, and the profound discourse on the Bread of Life, laying the theological foundation for the Eucharist.

Notable Quote:

"The Gospel of John, chapter six... it has changed my life."
(00:XX)

3. In-Depth Reflections and Insights

a. Breaking Boundaries – Jesus and the Samaritan Woman (John 4)

Fr. Mike reflects on Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman, emphasizing themes of acceptance, spiritual thirst, and the revelation of Jesus as the Messiah. He underscores the significance of Jesus offering "living water," symbolizing eternal life and the Holy Spirit.

Notable Quote:

"Our Father worshiped on this mountain... but the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth."
(10:15)

b. Authority and Divine Unity (John 5)

Exploring the healing of the official's son, Fr. Mike highlights Jesus' authority to heal and His unity with the Father. He delves into Jesus' declarations about His divine mission and the impending judgment, reinforcing the Catholic understanding of Jesus' divinity.

Notable Quote:

"The Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing."
(20:45)

c. The Eucharist: Literal Presence of Christ (John 6)

This segment forms the crux of the episode. Fr. Mike passionately interprets Jesus' teaching on the Bread of Life, affirming the Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation—the belief that bread and wine become the actual body and blood of Christ during the Eucharist.

He addresses common misunderstandings, reinforcing that Jesus' words are to be taken literally, not metaphorically. Fr. Mike connects this teaching to centuries-old Christian belief, emphasizing its foundational role in Catholic worship and salvation.

Notable Quotes:

"If you eat my flesh and drink my blood, you have eternal life."
(35:10)

"This is the bread which came down from heaven, not such as the fathers ate and died."
(36:30)

Fr. Mike recounts personal anecdotes, including a family debate, to illustrate the unwavering historical belief in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. He challenges listeners to embrace this mystery of faith, urging them to recognize and accept the profound truth of Christ's sacrifice and ongoing presence in the Mass.

Notable Quote:

"You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed and have come to know that you are the Holy One of God."
(49:50)

4. Application and Invitation

Fr. Mike concludes the episode by inviting listeners to deepen their faith through active participation in the Eucharist. He encourages personal reflection and prayer, urging believers to reaffirm their commitment to Jesus by embracing the Eucharist's mystery.

He emphasizes the transformative power of the Eucharist in daily life, urging listeners to experience God's presence and live through the lens of Scripture.

Notable Quote:

"Go to a Catholic church today. Kneel down in front of the tabernacle... give him your heart."
(55:20)

5. Closing Prayer

The episode culminates with a heartfelt prayer, thanking God for the revelations of His word and the gift of the Eucharist. Fr. Mike prays for continued guidance and strength for both himself and the listeners, reinforcing the communal aspect of faith.

Prayer Excerpt:

"Thank you so much, Father, for the gift of calling the Samaritan woman that she can have hope in her life... We receive our thanks, Lord God, today and every day, in Jesus' name we pray. Amen."
(60:00)

6. Final Reflections

Fr. Mike reiterates the significance of the teachings from John chapter six, stressing the essential nature of believing in Jesus as the true bread from heaven. He challenges listeners to place unwavering trust in Christ, much like Simon Peter did, affirming that Jesus is the source of eternal life.

He concludes with a personal note of encouragement, expressing his hope that listeners have found the episode enriching and transformative. Fr. Mike extends his prayers, inviting everyone to strengthen their faith journey.

Notable Quote:

"Everyone can leave me... you're not here because you believe in me. You're here because you got fed."
(48:30)

Conclusion

Episode 100 of "The Bible in a Year" serves as a profound exploration of Jesus' teachings and their implications for Christian life and worship. Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully intertwines scripture readings with insightful reflections, emphasizing the core Catholic beliefs surrounding the Eucharist and the necessity of unwavering faith in Christ. This episode not only celebrates a significant milestone in the podcast series but also deepens listeners' understanding of the Bible's cohesive narrative and its relevance in contemporary faith journeys.

Note: Timestamps are approximate and based on content segments within the provided transcript.