Podcast Summary: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Episode: Day 120: David Mourns Saul
Release Date: April 30, 2025
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Publisher: Ascension

Introduction and Podcast Update

Fr. Mike Schmitz begins the episode by expressing gratitude for the podcast's impact, highlighting its role in bringing the Word of God to a diverse and expanding audience. He announces exciting developments, including the podcast's availability on YouTube and upcoming translations into various languages to reach a broader global community. Emphasizing the podcast's commitment to remaining free, Fr. Mike appeals for listener support through contributions to sustain and expand this mission.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (00:00): "The end of this year is not going to be the end of Bible in a Year... we want to get the Word of God out there."

Today's Readings Overview

Fr. Mike outlines the day's scripture readings, which include:

1. 2 Samuel Chapter 1 - David's lament over Saul and Jonathan.
2. 1 Chronicles Chapter 1 - A comprehensive genealogy from Adam to Abraham.
3. Psalm 13 - A heartfelt prayer for deliverance from enemies.

He highlights the significance of delving into 1 Chronicles, noting its unique position in the Hebrew canon and its focus on themes like temple worship and the Messiah, using King David as a prototype.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (05:30): "The chronicler is emphasizing David's strengths... highlighting this is what the Messiah will be like."

Deep Dive into 2 Samuel Chapter 1: David Mourns Saul and Jonathan

Fr. Mike reads and explains the passage where David mourns the deaths of Saul and Jonathan. He emphasizes David's profound grief and respect for Saul, despite their adversarial relationship. The narrative showcases David's integrity and honor, especially in his interaction with the Amalekite who claims responsibility for Saul's death.

Key Points:

• David's Mourning: Demonstrates humility and reverence for God's anointed, even his adversary.
• Confrontation with the Amalekite: Highlights David's refusal to let Saul's legacy be tarnished and his commitment to justice.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (15:45): "David did not allow himself to be held captive by Saul... a reminder for us to not let past animosities hold us hostage."

Exploration of 1 Chronicles Chapter 1: Genealogical Significance

Fr. Mike reads through the genealogies listed in 1 Chronicles Chapter 1, spanning from Adam through various patriarchs. He reflects on the purpose behind chronicling these names, asserting that every name holds significance because of God's involvement and the divine narratives intertwined with each lineage.

Key Insights:

• Names with Meaning: Even in the absence of direct references to God, the genealogies signify His continuous presence and action.
• Connection to Salvation History: These lineages set the foundation for understanding the broader story of salvation.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (30:20): "Every one of their stories had God directly involved with their stories."

Reflection on Psalm 13: A Prayer for Deliverance

Fr. Mike reads Psalm 13, a poignant prayer of David seeking God's intervention amidst distress and enemies. He shares a guided prayer inspired by the Psalm, encouraging listeners to recognize every breath and heartbeat as God's gifts and to view each day through the lens of gratitude and divine mercy.

Key Themes:

• Trust in God's Mercy: Affirming faith despite prolonged suffering.
• Gratitude for God's Sustenance: Recognizing daily blessings as unearned gifts.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (40:50): "Every heartbeat has been a gift from you that we did nothing to earn."

Personal Application and Encouragement

Fr. Mike connects the lessons from David's mourning and the genealogical record to contemporary life. He emphasizes the importance of not being bound by past grievances or adversities, drawing parallels between David's freedom from Saul's animosity and the believer's freedom through Christ. Fr. Mike encourages listeners to seek God's grace in overcoming personal struggles and to embrace a future shaped by divine purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Freedom from the Past: Through Christ, believers are liberated from the hold of past enemies and sorrows.
• Embracing Grace: Acknowledge that moving forward is not solely reliant on personal strength but on God's grace.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (55:10): "With God's grace, to be able to move forward like David is now moving forward."

Conclusion and Prayer

Fr. Mike concludes with a heartfelt prayer, urging listeners to support one another and seek God's help in breaking free from past burdens. He expresses personal commitment to the community and looks forward to continuing the journey through the Bible together.

Fr. Mike Schmitz (58:30): "I'm praying for you. Please pray for me. ... I cannot wait to see you tomorrow. God."

Key Quotes with Timestamps

• Support Appeal:
  "The end of this year is not going to be the end of Bible in a Year..."
  (00:00)

• Messiah as David Prototype:
  "The Messiah will have all the virtues of David plus whatever more."
  (05:30)

• Overcoming Past Animosities:
  "David did not allow himself to be held captive by Saul... a reminder for us to not let past animosities hold us hostage."
  (15:45)

• Significance of Genealogies:
  "Every one of their stories had God directly involved with their stories."
  (30:20)

• Recognition of God's Gifts:
  "Every heartbeat has been a gift from you that we did nothing to earn."
  (40:50)

• Embracing God's Grace:
  "With God's grace, to be able to move forward like David is now moving forward."
  (55:10)

Final Thoughts

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully intertwines the historical narratives of David's mourning and the genealogical records of Chronicles to deliver profound spiritual lessons. He emphasizes the enduring presence of God in every aspect of life and encourages listeners to seek liberation from past burdens through faith and divine grace. The episode serves as both an insightful study of scripture and an inspiring call to live a life empowered by God's love and mercy.