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

Episode: Day 180: Giving Time to God (2025)

Release Date: June 29, 2025

Introduction

In Day 180 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Father Mike Schmitz delves into a profound exploration of dedicating time to God. This episode intertwines scripture readings from 2 Kings 13-14, Amos 7-9, and Psalm 124, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of Israel's history and its timeless lessons applicable to modern faith journeys.

Scripture Readings

Father Mike guides listeners through a series of scripture passages:

• 2 Kings 13-14: Chronicles the reigns of Jehoahaz, Jehoash, Amaziah, and Jeroboam II, highlighting their leadership, moral standings, and the consequent blessings or adversities faced by Israel and Judah.

• Amos 7-9: Presents the prophetic messages of Amos, emphasizing judgment, social injustice, and the eventual restoration of Israel.

• Psalm 124: A Psalm of David expressing gratitude for God's deliverance and protection.

Reflection on the Book of Amos

Father Mike transitions into a heartfelt reflection on the Book of Amos, drawing parallels between ancient Israel and contemporary Christian life.

Key Points:

• Social Injustice and Hypocrisy: Amos criticizes the Israelites for trampling the needy and engaging in deceitful practices. Father Mike highlights how these ancient sins mirror modern-day injustices and the tendency to prioritize personal gain over spiritual obligations.

• Impatience with God’s Timing: Quoting Amos 8:11-12, Father Mike emphasizes the Israelites' frustration:

  "I will make the sun go down at noon and darken the earth in broad daylight."
  He relates this to the common Christian sentiment of impatience with prayer and spiritual disciplines, revealing a misplaced heart.

• Call to Genuine Worship: Drawing from Amos's message, Father Mike stresses the importance of sincere worship and dedication to God, rather than mere ritualistic practices.

Notable Quote:

[14:45] “This reveals to the Lord and to ourselves where our hearts are.” – Father Mike Schmitz

Insights from John Henry Cardinal Newman

Father Mike introduces insights from John Henry Cardinal Newman, illustrating the necessity of prayer and heartfelt worship in preparing for eternal communion with God.

Key Points:

• Preparation of the Heart: Newman posits that without a life immersed in prayer and worship, the soul cannot truly rejoice in heaven. Father Mike relates this to the Israelites' spiritual state, leading to their eventual downfall.

• Transformation Through Prayer: Emphasizing the transformative power of prayer, Father Mike encourages listeners to cultivate a genuine relationship with God, aligning their hearts with divine purposes.

Notable Quote:

[22:10] “How will heaven possibly be heaven for the heart, for the soul that dreads hearing the words, let us pray?” – Father Mike Schmitz

Themes of Destruction, Captivity, and Restoration

The episode delves into the cyclical nature of Israel's history—disobedience leading to destruction and captivity, followed by divine restoration.

Key Points:

• Consequences of Sin: Father Mike explains how the kings' failings brought adversities upon Israel and Judah, serving as warnings against straying from God's commandments.

• Divine Compassion and Restoration: Despite Israel's repeated transgressions, God's covenant ensures eventual restoration, symbolizing hope and renewal for believers.

• Application to Modern Faith: The narrative underscores the importance of steadfastness in faith and the assurance of God's enduring mercy and plans for restoration in believers' lives.

Notable Quote:

[30:25] “But restoration is not the last word; it's the promise of God's enduring mercy and plans for us.” – Father Mike Schmitz

Application to Modern Life

Father Mike bridges the ancient scriptures with contemporary Christian experiences, urging listeners to reflect on their spiritual practices and priorities.

Key Points:

• Balancing Work and Worship: Highlighting the Israelites' impatience, Father Mike cautions against neglecting spiritual disciplines in favor of worldly pursuits.

• Heart Alignment: He encourages listeners to evaluate where their true priorities lie, fostering a life that harmonizes daily actions with spiritual commitments.

• Community and Prayer: Emphasizing the importance of communal prayer and mutual support, Father Mike calls for a collective dedication to honoring God in daily life.

Notable Quote:

[35:50] “We have a chance to return to the Lord with our whole heart, mind, soul, and strength.” – Father Mike Schmitz

Conclusion and Prayer

Father Mike concludes the episode with a heartfelt prayer, reflecting themes of gratitude, reliance on God's deliverance, and a plea for continued spiritual growth.

Key Points:

• Thanksgiving for Deliverance: Echoing Psalm 124, Father Mike expresses gratitude for God's protection and deliverance from adversities.

• Commitment to God's Word: He reinforces the importance of dedicating time to God, ensuring that listeners remain steadfast in their spiritual journeys.

Notable Prayer Segment:

[42:15] “Father in heaven, we give you praise. We thank you so much... let us pray for each other. I am praying for you. Please pray for me.” – Father Mike Schmitz

Final Thoughts

Day 180 serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of scripture and its application to modern faith. Father Mike Schmitz eloquently connects Israel's historical narratives to contemporary Christian life, urging listeners to prioritize their relationship with God, practice genuine worship, and remain committed to living out their faith with sincerity and dedication.

Stay tuned for tomorrow's episode as Father Mike continues the journey through the Bible, guiding you to deeper understanding and closer communion with God's Word.

God bless,

Fr. Mike Schmitz