Podcast Summary: Day 103 – Judas' Secrecy (2025)

Title: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Release Date: April 13, 2025
Episode Focus: John 13-15 & Proverbs 6:6-11
Duration: 20-25 minutes

Introduction

In Day 103 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into a profound exploration of the Last Supper, focusing on John chapters 13, 14, and 15, alongside Proverbs 6:6-11. This episode, titled "Judas' Secrecy," unpacks themes of betrayal, servitude, love, and divine promise, offering listeners deep reflections and practical insights rooted in Scripture.

Scripture Readings Overview

Fr. Mike begins by outlining the day's readings:

• Gospel of John: Chapters 13-15
• Proverbs: Chapter 6, verses 6-11
• Bible Translation: Revised Standard Version, Second Catholic Edition
• Study Guide: The Great Adventure Bible Timeline by Jeff Cavins

These passages collectively provide a narrative of Jesus' final teachings, the impending betrayal by Judas, Peter's forthcoming denial, and the establishment of foundational Christian principles.

Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet (John 13)

Fr. Mike opens with John 13, recounting the poignant moment when Jesus washes His disciples' feet. This act serves as a powerful demonstration of humility and service.

"He [Jesus] poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him." [00:10]

Key Insights:

• Servant Leadership: Jesus embodies the true essence of leadership by serving others selflessly.
• Call to Imitate: Fr. Mike emphasizes, "If I have set you an example, you should do as I have done to you," urging listeners to adopt this servant mentality in their own lives.
• Purity and Cleanliness: While Jesus declares, "You are clean," He subtly reminds us that not everyone present shares this purity, referencing Judas' impending betrayal.

Foretelling of Betrayal and Peter's Denial (John 13:21-38)

A significant portion of the episode centers on the prophecy of Judas' betrayal and Peter's denial.

"Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me." [13:22]

Fr. Mike reflects on the unawareness of the disciples regarding Judas' intentions despite their close companionship over the years.

Judas' Secrecy:

• Private Struggle: Fr. Mike ponders Judas' internal conflict, noting, "Even though he was given responsibility over the money box, he maintained a secret that ultimately led to his betrayal."
• Lesson on Transparency: The episode underscores the dangers of harboring secrets and the importance of confiding in trusted individuals to prevent destructive outcomes.

Peter's Denial:

• Overconfidence: Peter's bold declaration, "I will lay down my life for you," contrasts sharply with his subsequent denial, highlighting human vulnerability.
• Divine Revelation: Jesus' prediction, "The cock will not crow till you have denied me three times," serves as a humbling reminder of our limitations.

"Peter, even though you say you'll lay down your life for me, you have denied me three times." [14:45]

The New Commandment – Love One Another (John 13:34-35)

Transitioning to the establishment of a new Christian mandate, Jesus commands His disciples to "love one another as I have loved you."

"By this all men will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another." [13:35]

Fr. Mike's Reflection:

• Defining Discipleship: Love becomes the distinguishing mark of true followers of Christ.
• Practical Application: He encourages listeners to embody this love in daily interactions, fostering communities rooted in mutual respect and compassion.

Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14)

In John 14, Jesus elucidates His role and the path to divine communion.

"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." [14:6]

Core Themes:

• Divine Guidance: Jesus assures His disciples of a prepared place, reinforcing the promise of eternal fellowship.
• Holy Spirit's Promise: The introduction of the Holy Spirit as another Counselor provides assurance of continued guidance and presence.

"If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever." [14:15-16]

Fr. Mike Highlights:

• Inseparability from Christ: The necessity of abiding in Jesus is paramount for spiritual vitality and effectiveness.
• Assurance of Presence: Despite impending challenges, Jesus' promise of peace and the Holy Spirit offers comfort and strength.

Jesus, the True Vine (John 15)

John 15 presents Jesus as the true vine, emphasizing the importance of remaining connected to Him.

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit." [15:5]

Key Points:

• Fruitfulness: Bearing fruit is contingent upon a continual relationship with Christ.
• Divine Pruning: God, the vinedresser, prunes unfruitful branches to enhance growth and productivity.
• Friendship Over Servitude: Jesus redefines relationships, calling His disciples friends rather than servants, thereby deepening communal bonds.

"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." [15:13]

Proverbs 6:6-11 – Lessons from the Ant

Parallel to the Gospel readings, Fr. Mike explores Proverbs 6:6-11, which encourages diligence and warns against laziness.

"Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways and be wise." [Proverbs 6:6]

Insights:

• Self-Motivation: The ant's industrious nature contrasts sharply with the sluggard's complacency.
• Consequences of Laziness: The passage underscores the inevitability of poverty for those who neglect their responsibilities.

Application: Fr. Mike ties this wisdom to Christian living, advocating for proactive faith and stewardship as reflections of one's commitment to God.

Reflections and Personal Insights

Fr. Mike intertwines theological exposition with personal reflections, offering relatable insights:

• Human Weakness: He candidly discusses personal struggles with faith and the temptation to "live on our own," emphasizing the necessity of divine assistance.
• Embracing Community: The importance of communal support and accountability in maintaining a steadfast spiritual journey is highlighted.
• Abiding in Christ: Fr. Mike fervently prays for listeners to remain connected to Jesus, especially during moments of doubt or temptation.

"Without me, you can do nothing." [15:20]

This statement serves as a cornerstone of the episode, reiterating the indispensable role of Christ in achieving spiritual and practical success.

Guided Prayer and Conclusion

The episode culminates in a heartfelt prayer where Fr. Mike implores:

• Trust in Divine Providence: A plea for God to aid listeners in developing genuine, Christ-like hearts.
• Abidance in God's Presence: A request for strength to remain connected to Jesus amidst life's trials.

"In the grace of your son, Jesus, help us to abide in you this day and every day." [Prayer Segment]

Fr. Mike concludes with an affirmation of mutual prayer support and a reminder of the transformative power of abiding in Christ.

Final Thoughts

Day 103: Judas' Secrecy intricately weaves together narratives of betrayal, denied promises, and the unwavering call to love and remain in Christ. Fr. Mike Schmitz effectively bridges biblical teachings with contemporary applications, urging listeners to reflect deeply on their spiritual journeys and relationships. The episode serves as a compelling reminder of the fragile nature of human intentions and the steadfast love and guidance offered through Jesus.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Introduction to Servant Leadership:

   "He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him." [00:10]

2. Judas' Betrayal Announcement:

   "Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me." [13:22]

3. Jesus as the Path to the Father:

   "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." [14:6]

4. Promise of the Holy Spirit:

   "If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever." [14:15-16]

5. Dependence on Christ for Fruitfulness:

   "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit." [15:5]

6. Valorizing Labor Over Sloth:

   "Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways and be wise." [Proverbs 6:6]

7. Human Inadequacy Without Christ:

   "Without me, you can do nothing." [15:20]

8. Affirmation of Divine Assistance:

   "In the grace of your son, Jesus, help us to abide in you this day and every day." [Prayer Segment]

Conclusion

Fr. Mike Schmitz's Day 103 episode offers a rich tapestry of scripture and reflection, challenging listeners to introspect on their faith, actions, and relationships. By dissecting the complexities of Judas' betrayal and Peter's denial, alongside the enduring messages of love and reliance on Christ, this episode serves as both a spiritual guide and a heartfelt exhortation to live a life deeply rooted in God's word.