The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 139: Reparation to the Gibeonites (2025)

Release Date: May 19, 2025
Duration: 20-25 minutes
Scripture Readings: 2 Samuel 21, 1 Chronicles 26, Psalm 40

1. Introduction

Fr. Mike Schmitz welcomes listeners to Day 139 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, emphasizing the journey through the entire Bible using Jeff Cavins' Great Adventure Bible Timeline. He introduces the day's scriptures and encourages listeners to subscribe and engage with the reading plan.

2. Scripture Readings Overview

• 2 Samuel 21: David avenges the Gibeonites, addressing the famine and the blood guilt of Saul's house.
• 1 Chronicles 26: Details the divisions of the gatekeepers responsible for guarding the temple.
• Psalm 40: A prayer of thanksgiving and a plea for God's continued help.

3. David and the Gibeonites (2 Samuel 21)

Fr. Mike delves into the narrative of David addressing the famine caused by Saul's previous massacre of the Gibeonites. He highlights David's approach to resolving the issue with wisdom and humility.

Key Points:

• Blood Guilt: The famine is attributed to Saul's wrongdoing against the Gibeonites.
  “There is blood guilt on Saul and on his house, because he put the Gibeonites to death.” [01:17]

• David's Response: Instead of imposing a unilateral decision, David seeks the Gibeonites' wishes.
  “What shall I do for you, and how?” [01:38]

• Reparation: The Gibeonites request seven of Saul’s descendants to be executed to atone for Saul's actions.
  “Let seven of his sons be given to us, that we may hang them.” [01:57]

• Execution: David complies, demonstrating accountability and fulfilling God's requirement.
  “They were put to death in the first days of the harvest...” [02:09]

Insights: Fr. Mike emphasizes David's role as a righteous leader who upholds justice while honoring past covenants, reflecting Christ-like servitude. He draws parallels between David's actions and Jesus' statement, “I did not come to be served, but to serve.” [17:37]

4. The Divisions of the Gatekeepers (1 Chronicles 26)

Fr. Mike transitions to discussing the organizational structure of the gatekeepers responsible for the temple's security.

Key Points:

• Gatekeepers' Role: These individuals acted as protectors, ensuring only the righteous entered the temple.
  “They are going to play a very big role later on in Second Chronicles...” [12:42]

• Notable Families: The passage lists various families entrusted with these duties, highlighting their importance and the honor bestowed upon them.
  “Blessed Solanus Casey... his job was to simply answer the door.” [14:34]

• Sanctification through Service: Fr. Mike underscores that every faithful action, no matter how small, serves to sanctify individuals when done for the Lord.
  “Whatever we do, if we do it for the Lord, it's always sanctifying.” [15:10]

Insights: He draws inspiration from Psalm 84, where the psalmist expresses a deep desire to be a doorkeeper in God’s house, valuing spiritual duties over worldly comforts. This underscores the dignity of service and vigilance in faith communities.

5. Reflection on Leadership and Aging

Fr. Mike reflects on David’s aging and his continued commitment to leadership despite physical weariness.

Key Points:

• David's Weariness: Illustrates David’s struggle with his diminishing strength yet unwavering dedication to his duties.
  “David is getting old... willing to go into battle.” [19:07]

• Human Weakness: Acknowledges that even great leaders like David face limitations, highlighting the importance of humility.
  “He doesn’t have the strength he had.” [19:56]

• Personal Application: Fr. Mike relates this to his own experiences as a priest, recognizing the natural decline in physical capabilities with age.
  “I realize... some of the strength that my youth has is gone.” [20:28]

Insights: He encourages listeners to embrace humility, recognizing their limitations while relying on God’s strength. The emphasis is on doing what one can and seeking divine assistance for what one cannot.

6. Prayer Based on Psalm 40

The episode features a guided prayer inspired by Psalm 40, focusing on thanksgiving for deliverance and seeking God's help.

Notable Quotes:

• “Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust.” [09:39]
• “Your law is within my heart.” [10:14]
• “Preserve me, for evils have encompassed me without number.” [10:45]
• “Help us to always say yes to you and to never ever stop saying yes.” [12:10]

Prayer Highlights:

• Thanksgiving: Acknowledges God’s deliverance from dire circumstances.
• Confession: Admits personal weaknesses and the prevalence of sin.
• Supplication: Requests God’s continued mercy and assistance against adversities.
• Commitment: Vows obedience and unwavering trust in God’s will.

Insights: Fr. Mike emphasizes the transformative power of sincere prayer, aligning one’s heart with God’s desires over mere ritualistic sacrifices. He encourages living a life of obedience, reflecting true devotion and trust in God.

7. Lessons and Takeaways

• Righteous Leadership: David exemplifies how leaders should address past wrongs with accountability and seek restorative justice.
• Honor in Service: The role of gatekeepers teaches the value of vigilance and dedication in maintaining sacred spaces.
• Embracing Humility: Acknowledging personal limitations fosters humility and reliance on God’s strength.
• Prayer as Transformation: Genuine prayer aligns believers with God’s will, promoting spiritual growth and resilience.

8. Conclusion

Fr. Mike concludes by encouraging listeners to embody the lessons learned from David's story and the gatekeepers' dedication. He invites the community to support one another through prayer and to strive for obedience and humility in their spiritual journeys.

Final Quote: “Without Him, we can do nothing. So keep praying for each other because we need that grace...” [21:25]

Blessings and Encouragement:
Fr. Mike signs off with a blessing, expressing his anticipation for the next day's journey through the Bible.

This episode intricately weaves historical biblical narratives with practical spiritual lessons, encouraging listeners to understand the depth of Scripture and apply its teachings to their daily lives.