Podcast Summary: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 173: 2 Kings 4, 2 Chronicles 28, Psalm 127

Introduction

Released on June 23, 2025, Day 173 of Ascension’s "The Bible in a Year" podcast, hosted by Fr. Mike Schmitz, delves into three pivotal chapters: 2 Kings 4, 2 Chronicles 28, and Psalm 127. Fr. Mike guides listeners through scripture readings, reflections, and prayers, aiming to deepen understanding of the Bible’s interconnected narrative and its relevance today.

Scripture Readings Overview

• 2 Kings 4: Focuses on the miracles performed by the prophet Elisha, including the story of the widow’s oil and the restoration of the Shunammite woman’s son.
• 2 Chronicles 28: Chronicles the reign of King Ahaz of Judah, highlighting his unfaithfulness and the consequent turmoil in the kingdom.
• Psalm 127: A reflection on God's blessings in the home, emphasizing the importance of relying on God’s guidance and provision.

Deep Dive into 2 Kings 4

Elisha and the Widow’s Jar of Oil (2 Kings 4:1-7)

At [02:00], Fr. Mike recounts the narrative of a widow facing debt and the impending loss of her children to slavery. Elisha instructs her to borrow empty vessels and pour her remaining oil into them, resulting in a miraculous multiplication that not only pays off her debts but also sustains her family.

Notable Quote:

“As she poured, they brought the vessels to her. When the vessels were full, she said to her son, bring me another vessel. And he said to her, there is not another.” [02:10]

This story underscores faith and obedience, illustrating how trust in divine instruction can lead to unforeseen blessings.

Elisha and the Shunammite Couple (2 Kings 4:8-37)

Fr. Mike expands on the relationship between Elisha and the Shunammite woman, highlighting their hospitality and the subsequent blessing of a son. The tragedy of the child’s death and Elisha’s subsequent miracle of resurrection serve as profound lessons in hope and restoration.

Notable Quote:

“As he stretched himself upon him, the flesh of the child became warm. Then he got up again and walked once back and forth in the house... The child opened his eyes.” [06:25]

The narrative emphasizes the power of prayer and the belief that God can reverse even the most heartbreaking circumstances.

Reflection on Faith and Trust

Fr. Mike reflects on the widow’s limited faith compared to the Shunammite woman’s unwavering trust. He muses on how knowing the outcome can influence our actions, encouraging listeners to embrace faith without knowing the end, trusting that God’s plans transcend our understanding.

Notable Quote:

“But here she is thinking, I have one little bit of oil left. I don’t need a bunch of containers.” [18:13]

This highlights the balance between practicality and divine faith, urging believers to act in faith even when the full story isn’t visible.

Exploring 2 Chronicles 28: The Reign of King Ahaz

Ahaz’s Unfaithfulness (2 Chronicles 28:1-27)

At [08:13], Fr. Mike outlines King Ahaz's reign over Judah, emphasizing his departure from righteous leadership. Unlike his father David, Ahaz embraced idolatry, constructing molten images of Baals and engaging in abominable practices, including child sacrifice.

Notable Quote:

“He sacrificed and burned incense on the high places and on the hills and under every green tree.” [08:47]

Ahaz’s actions provoked divine wrath, leading to military defeats and severe losses for Judah.

Consequences of Apostasy

Fr. Mike discusses the catastrophic impact of Ahaz’s apostasy, citing the defeat by Syria and Israel, the death of valiant men, and the capture of 200,000 people. The prophet Oded intercedes to prevent further enslavement, demonstrating the power of prophetic voices in steering communal righteousness.

Notable Quote:

“You shall not bring the captives in here, for you propose to bring upon us guilt against the Lord...” [16:10]

Despite the intervention, Ahaz remains unrepentant, ultimately facing death without restoring his faithfulness.

Reflection on Leadership and Faithfulness

Fr. Mike draws parallels between Ahaz’s failure and the responsibilities of leadership, emphasizing the importance of steadfast faith. He contemplates how, even in times of distress, turning away from God leads to downfall, urging listeners to maintain faithfulness irrespective of circumstances.

Meditation on Psalm 127

At [12:47], Fr. Mike transitions to Psalm 127, focusing on the theme of God’s blessings in the home. The Psalm underscores that human efforts are futile without divine guidance.

Notable Quote:

“Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” [12:52]

The Psalm further elaborates on the blessings of children, portraying them as a heritage and a reward, and the security they provide.

Prayer and Application

Fr. Mike leads a prayer reflecting on the Psalm’s teachings, encouraging listeners to rely on God’s provision and seek His guidance in their personal lives and homes. He emphasizes the idea that faith in God leads to true prosperity and peace.

Closing Reflections and Prayers

Fr. Mike concludes the episode with personal reflections and prayers, intertwining the day’s scriptures with the listeners' experiences of loss and grief.

Faith Amidst Grief

He empathizes with those experiencing loss, drawing parallels between the Shunammite woman’s sorrow and contemporary grief. Fr. Mike reassures listeners of God’s ultimate restoration and the hope of resurrection, inspired by Elisha’s miracles and the promise of Jesus.

Notable Quote:

“In the end, Christ will make all things right... He will make all things new.” [24:00]

Community Support

Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of community in healing, pledging prayers for those who are struggling to see beyond their present pain. He encourages mutual support, highlighting that collective faith can bolster individual resilience.

Notable Quote:

“If we only knew the end of the story, how we lived, the middle of the story would be dramatically changed.” [23:57]

Final Prayer

The episode closes with a heartfelt prayer for those grappling with loss, asking for God’s healing and restoration.

Notable Quote:

“Jesus, ultimately, not only is he going to raise the little girl... but also Lazarus, who had been dead and in the tomb.” [22:27]

Key Takeaways

1. Faith and Obedience: Trusting in God’s instructions, even when outcomes are uncertain, can lead to miraculous blessings.
2. Consequences of Apostasy: Turning away from God disrupts personal and communal well-being, underscoring the importance of steadfast faith.
3. Divine Provision: Human efforts without divine guidance are insufficient; reliance on God ensures true prosperity.
4. Hope Amidst Grief: Even in moments of profound loss, faith in God’s ultimate restoration provides comfort and hope.
5. Community Support: Collective prayer and support are vital for personal healing and maintaining faith during trials.

Conclusion

Day 173 of "The Bible in a Year" offers a profound exploration of miracles, leadership, faithfulness, and divine blessings. Through the stories of Elisha, the Shunammite woman, and King Ahaz, listeners are encouraged to trust in God’s plan, remain faithful in leadership, and find hope amidst grief. Fr. Mike Schmitz’s reflections and prayers provide both spiritual insight and emotional support, making this episode a meaningful guide for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Scripture and its application in daily life.

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