Summary of Episode: Day 113: Broken Trust (2025) – The Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz

Released on April 23, 2025, by Ascension

Introduction

In Day 113: Broken Trust, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the tumultuous period of David's life as depicted in 1 Samuel chapters 21 and 22, coupled with a poignant reflection on Psalm 52. This episode, part of The Bible in a Year series, offers listeners a profound exploration of betrayal, trust, and unwavering faith in God. Fr. Mike guides the audience through scripture readings, insightful commentary, and heartfelt prayers, aiming to illuminate how the complexities of David's experiences resonate with contemporary struggles.

Scripture Readings

• 1 Samuel 21-22:

  • 1 Samuel 21: David's interaction with Ahimelech the priest, obtaining the Holy Bread, and the granting of Goliath's sword.
  • 1 Samuel 22: The massacre of the priests of Nob by Doeg the Edomite under Saul's orders and David's subsequent flight to the cave of Adullam.

• Psalm 52: A reflective Psalm attributed to David, addressing deceit and the steadfastness of true faith.

Fr. Mike utilizes the Revised Standard Version, second Catholic Edition, enhancing the authenticity and depth of the scriptural passages.

Key Discussions and Insights

David and the Holy Bread (1 Samuel 21)

Fr. Mike begins by recounting David's visit to Nob, where he seeks provision from Ahimelech the priest. Faced with scarcity, Ahimelech offers the sacred Bread of the Presence—a gesture symbolizing God's provision and love. David's respectful insistence on maintaining holiness, even during desperate times, underscores his deep faith:

Fr. Mike Schmitz (00:24): "David said, '... their vessels be holy, even when it is a common journey...'"

This passage serves as a metaphor for maintaining spiritual integrity amidst life's challenges.

Betrayal and Trust: The Rise of Doeg the Edomite (1 Samuel 22)

The narrative intensifies with Saul's paranoia and the tragic betrayal by Doeg the Edomite. Fr. Mike highlights Doeg's role as the chief herdsman who betrays David by reporting his actions to Saul, leading to the slaughter of 85 priests at Nob. This act of treachery not only targets David but also the innocent priests who were unaware of his predicament.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (15:47): "Doeg the Edomite is that betrayer... he just slimy, right?"

Fr. Mike emphasizes the devastating impact of betrayal, drawing parallels between Doeg's actions and the profound hurt caused by broken trust in our own lives.

Reflection on Psalm 52

Transitioning to Psalm 52, Fr. Mike interprets David's lament over Doeg's deceit as a universal experience of betrayal. He connects the Psalm's themes to the listeners' personal struggles, encouraging empathy and communal prayer for those wounded by betrayal.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (25:30): "We recognize our own experience. We recognize our own hearts..."

This reflection serves as a therapeutic reminder of the resilience found in faith and the importance of trusting in God's unwavering support despite human failings.

Theological Insights: The Bread of the Presence and Faithfulness

Fr. Mike delves deeper into the significance of the Bread of the Presence, comparing it to the Eucharist in the Mass. He illustrates how this sacred bread represents God's enduring love and provision, reinforcing the message that faith provides sustenance in times of scarcity and trial.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (40:10): "This is Jesus Christ crucified and risen and ascended to heaven. This is truly him."

By paralleling David's reliance on the Holy Bread with the Christian practice of communion, Fr. Mike underscores the continuity of divine provision and presence.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Introduction to Day 113:

  Fr. Mike Schmitz (00:04): "Welcome to the Bible in a Year Podcast where we encounter God's voice and live life through the lens of Scripture."

• On Betrayal and Trust:

  Fr. Mike Schmitz (25:30): "We recognize what it is to be abandoned, to have had friends and then to have those friends turn on us."

• On Spiritual Integrity:

  Fr. Mike Schmitz (40:10): "This is Jesus Christ crucified and risen and ascended to heaven. This is truly him."

• Encouraging Communal Prayer:

  Fr. Mike Schmitz (50:20): "Please pray for me. I am praying for you. Let's pray for each other."

Conclusions and Takeaways

Day 113: Broken Trust offers a compelling narrative that intertwines historical scripture with present-day applications. Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully navigates the complexities of David's trials, particularly focusing on the themes of betrayal and steadfastness in faith. The episode encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences with trust and betrayal, fostering a sense of community and mutual support through prayer.

Key takeaways include:

• Maintaining Faith Under Duress: David's reliance on the Holy Bread exemplifies unwavering trust in God's provision, even in dire circumstances.

• Understanding the Depth of Betrayal: The actions of Doeg the Edomite serve as a stark reminder of the pain caused by deceit and broken trust, resonating with universal human experiences.

• The Power of Communal Support: Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of supporting one another through prayer and empathy, reinforcing the strength found in community.

• Spiritual Resilience: The episode underscores the transformative power of scripture and prayer in overcoming personal betrayals and maintaining spiritual integrity.

Fr. Mike concludes with a heartfelt call to trust in God, encouraging listeners to seek solace and strength through their faith, even when faced with the darkness of human betrayal.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (End): "Let's pray for each other. My name is Father Mike. I cannot wait to see you tomorrow. God bless."

Final Reflections

Day 113: Broken Trust serves as a poignant exploration of the struggles between human frailty and divine faithfulness. Through the lens of David's experiences, listeners are invited to examine their own lives, recognize the presence of betrayal, and find solace in the enduring support of God. Fr. Mike Schmitz's compassionate guidance offers not only a deepened understanding of scripture but also a pathway to healing and strengthened faith.