Podcast Summary: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 169: Joash Is Crowned

Release Date: June 18, 2025

Episode Overview

In Day 169 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into a pivotal moment in the history of Judah through the lens of three significant scriptures: 1 Kings 22, 2 Chronicles 23, and the final chapter of Song of Solomon. This episode not only recounts the historical and biblical narratives but also draws profound spiritual insights, emphasizing God's unwavering faithfulness amidst human faltering.

Scripture Readings

1. 1 Kings 22: The Battle of Ramoth Gilead

Fr. Mike begins by recounting the alliance between Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, and Ahab, King of Israel, as they prepare to wage war against the Syrians at Ramoth Gilead. The narrative highlights a critical moment where Jehoshaphat insists on seeking the Lord's counsel before engaging in battle (00:22).

• Ahab's Prophets vs. Micaiah: While approximately 400 prophets unanimously advise victory, Jehoshaphat requests a true prophet to confirm. Ahab reluctantly summons Micaiah, known for his unfavorable prophecies against him. Despite pressure, Micaiah delivers a stark revelation: Ahab will fall in battle (02:11).

• Prophecy Fulfilled: The battle ensues with Ahab disguised, tragically leading to his death as prophesied. Fr. Mike underscores the fulfillment of God's word, echoing Micaiah's foretelling that "dogs will lick up [Ahab's] blood and the harlots will wash themselves in it" (06:19).

2. 2 Chronicles 23: The Coronation of Joash

Transitioning to 2 Chronicles 23, the episode narrates the turbulent period following Ahab's demise, focusing on the rise of Joash:

• Ataliah's Tyranny: After Ahaziah's death, Ataliah, Ahab's daughter, seizes power, aiming to eradicate Davidic lineage (16:50). However, her plans are thwarted when hidden members of the royal family, led by Jehoiada the priest, act to crown the young Joash as king (17:26).

• Restoration and Covenant: At just seven years old, Joash's coronation marks a restoration of rightful leadership. Jehoiada establishes a covenant that the people and the king must remain faithful to the Lord, leading to the dismantling of Baal worship and the reinstatement of proper worship practices in Jerusalem (11:12).

3. Song of Solomon 8: Celebrating Love

Concluding the readings, Fr. Mike explores Song of Solomon 8, a poetic celebration of love. This chapter employs rich metaphors to depict the depth and resilience of love, mirroring the steadfastness of God's love for humanity.

• Metaphors of Love: Phrases like "Love is as strong as death" and "Many waters cannot quench love" (14:26) emphasize the enduring and unquenchable nature of true love.

Reflections and Insights

Fr. Mike interweaves the biblical narratives with contemporary spiritual lessons:

• God's Faithfulness Amidst Unfaithfulness: Highlighting the contrast between the unfaithful northern kingdom of Israel and the steadfastness of Judah under Joash, Fr. Mike draws parallels to modern faithfulness. He emphasizes that "God is faithful to us even when we are not faithful" (19:08), reassuring listeners of God's unwavering commitment despite human shortcomings.

• The Power of True Prophecy: The episode underscores the importance of seeking genuine divine guidance. Jehoshaphat's insistence on hearing the Lord's word, even against popular opinion, serves as a model for discernment and reliance on God's truth.

• Restoration Through Covenant: Joash's installment as king, supported by a covenant to uphold God's laws, illustrates the transformative power of communal commitment to faith. This restoration serves as an encouragement for listeners to renew their own covenants with God.

• Enduring Love as Divine Love: The exploration of Song of Solomon reinforces the podcast's theme of God's relentless love. Fr. Mike connects the poetic expressions of human love to the divine love that led Christ to death for humanity's salvation (14:38).

Notable Quotes

• Protection Under Covenant:

  "Jehoiada said to them, 'Behold the king's son. Let him reign as the Lord spoke concerning the sons of David.'" (08:38)

• Enduring Nature of Love:

  "Love is as strong as death. Jealousy is cruel as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, a most vehement flame." (12:21)

• God's Faithfulness:

  "God is faithful to us even when we are not faithful followers of Him. We're not faithful sons or daughters. He is a faithful dad." (19:08)

Guided Prayer

The episode features a heartfelt guided prayer that encapsulates the themes of love and covenant:

"Love is as strong as death... Love led you, God, to death for us, so that you could draw us near to your heart, so that you could make us your children, so that you could love us in the way that you desire to love us... Help us live every day as yours, as your beloved." (12:16 - 14:56)

Concluding Reflections

Fr. Mike concludes by reflecting on the historical and spiritual significance of the readings:

• Cycles of Faithfulness: He observes the alternating periods of faithfulness and unfaithfulness among the kings of Israel and Judah, reinforcing the message that "God is faithful even when his people are not" (19:08).

• Hope in God's Promises: Despite the political and spiritual turmoil, the crowning of Joash represents the enduring hope anchored in God's promises to David, symbolizing that God's redemptive story continues despite human failings (17:42).

• Community and Support: Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of praying for one another, fostering a sense of communal support and shared faith journey.

Final Thoughts

Day 169 of "The Bible in a Year" offers a profound exploration of leadership, faithfulness, and divine love. Through the stories of Ahab, Jehoshaphat, Ataliah, and Joash, listeners are invited to reflect on their own faith journeys, encouraged by the steadfastness of God amidst human imperfection. The integration of poetic scripture from Song of Solomon further enriches the episode, celebrating the multifaceted nature of love as a reflection of God's enduring relationship with His people.

Remember to subscribe to "The Bible in a Year" podcast on your preferred platform and download your own reading plan at ascensionpress.com/BibleinAYear. Join Fr. Mike Schmitz daily as you journey through the entire Bible, gaining deeper understanding and living life through the lens of Scripture.