The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) - Episode Summary

Title: Day 17: Jacob Meets Esau

Release Date: January 17, 2025

Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Producer: Ascension
Description: In this 20-25 minute episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides listeners through Genesis chapters 33 and 34, Job chapters 23 and 24, and Proverbs 3:13-18. Through scripture readings, reflections, and guided prayers, Fr. Mike explores themes of reconciliation, brokenness, and the pursuit of wisdom.

I. Scripture Readings Overview

Genesis 33-34:
Fr. Mike begins by recounting the story of Jacob and Esau's reunion. After years of estrangement marked by Jacob's deceit to obtain Esau's blessing, the brothers face a moment of potential reconciliation. However, the narrative takes a dark turn with the defilement of Dinah by Shechem, leading to violent retribution by Simeon and Levi.

Job 23-24:
Job continues his lament, questioning God's presence and justice amidst his suffering. He grapples with the apparent prosperity of the wicked and the plight of the righteous, expressing deep frustration and a desire to present his case before God.

Proverbs 3:13-18:
A passage celebrating the virtues of wisdom and understanding, highlighting their incomparable value over material wealth and their role in leading a life of peace and prosperity.

II. Key Discussions and Insights

A. Reconciliation and Brokenness in Genesis 33-34

Fr. Mike delves into the profound moment of reconciliation between Jacob and Esau in Genesis 33. He emphasizes:

• Hope Amidst Past Deceit:
  Jacob approaches Esau with humility, dividing his family to minimize potential conflict. Fr. Mike notes, "[00:45] Esau ran to meet him and embraced him, and they wept," illustrating a breakthrough in their fraught relationship.

• Acts of Restoration:
  Jeff Cavins' insights highlight that Jacob's generous gifts to Esau symbolize a restoration of blessings previously manipulated by Jacob. This act marks the first instance of genuine reconciliation in their narrative.

However, the story swiftly moves to Genesis 34, revealing the persistent presence of brokenness:

• The Defilement of Dinah:
  Shechem's violation of Dinah introduces themes of injustice and abuse. Fr. Mike reflects on the gravity of such actions, stating, "[14:05] the words were it ought not to be done," underscoring the moral failings evident in the narrative.

• Violent Retribution:
  Simeon and Levi's response—killing all the male inhabitants of Shechem—raises questions about justice and vengeance. Fr. Mike navigates this complex situation, acknowledging the tension between upholding family honor and adhering to righteous conduct.

B. Job's Struggle with Divine Justice

Transitioning to Job, Fr. Mike connects Jacob's reconciliation with Job's ongoing struggle:

• Questioning God's Justice:
  Job's laments, such as "[15:30] Oh, that I knew where I might find him, that I might come even to his seat," reveal his yearning for understanding and a direct dialogue with God amidst his suffering.

• The Complexity of Suffering:
  Fr. Mike discusses how Job's experiences mirror the unpredictability of life, where good people suffer and the wicked may prosper, challenging simplistic notions of divine justice.

C. Embracing Wisdom in Proverbs

In Proverbs 3:13-18, Fr. Mike highlights the pursuit of wisdom as a divine calling:

• Superior Value of Wisdom:
  "Happy is the man who finds wisdom and the man who gets understanding. For the gain from it is better than gain from Silver and its profit better than gold." ([19:50])

• Pathway to a Peaceful Life:
  Wisdom leads to long life, riches, honor, and a life of pleasantness and peace, serving as a counterbalance to the chaos and brokenness depicted in Genesis and Job.

III. Notable Quotes with Attribution

• "Esau ran to meet him and embraced him, and they wept." – Fr. Mike Schmitz ([04:20])

• "Shechem's actions were described as 'it ought not to be done,' highlighting their moral failings." – Fr. Mike Schmitz ([13:15])

• "Job continues to note that there are good people who die and there are bad people who seem to be rewarded." – Fr. Mike Schmitz ([21:45])

• "Happy is the man who finds wisdom and the man who gets understanding. For the gain from it is better than gain from Silver and its profit better than gold." – Proverbs 3:13-14 ([19:50])

• "God does write straight, but he writes straight with crooked lines." – Fr. Mike Schmitz ([29:30])

• "Even our broken story can be part of his story." – Fr. Mike Schmitz ([31:10])

IV. Reflections and Takeaways

Fr. Mike intertwines the scriptures to present a cohesive narrative on human fallibility and divine grace:

• Endurance Through Brokenness:
  Despite the recurring themes of deceit, violence, and suffering, the episode emphasizes the relentless pursuit of reconciliation and understanding.

• The Role of Faith:
  Fr. Mike encourages listeners to maintain their faith and continue their spiritual journey, even when confronted with challenging passages and personal struggles.

• Seeking Wisdom and Understanding:
  Wisdom is portrayed as a guiding force that can help navigate the complexities of life, offering a path towards peace and fulfillment.

• Community and Prayer:
  The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer, fostering a sense of community and mutual support among listeners.

V. Conclusion

In Day 17 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully navigates the intricate narratives of Genesis, Job, and Proverbs, drawing connections between reconciliation, suffering, and wisdom. Through thoughtful reflection and scriptural insights, he invites listeners to embrace their own journeys of faith, recognizing that even amidst brokenness, there is hope for restoration and understanding.

Fr. Mike's message resonates with the enduring truth that while life's path may be fraught with challenges and moral complexities, the pursuit of wisdom and the embrace of divine grace can lead to profound personal and spiritual growth. As he aptly puts it, "God does write straight, but he writes straight with crooked lines," reminding us that our flawed stories can still contribute to a larger, divine narrative.

Prayer Recited by Fr. Mike Schmitz:

"Happy Father in heaven, we thank you for this day. We thank you for your word... Please receive our thanks in Jesus name, Amen."

Final Encouragement:

Fr. Mike urges listeners to continue their Biblical journey with resilience and faith, emphasizing the importance of prayer, community support, and unwavering dedication to understanding God's Word.

Stay Connected:

For more episodes and to follow along the Bible in a Year reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/BibleInAYear or subscribe through your preferred podcast app.