Podcast Summary: "The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)" – Day 182: The Inescapable God

Introduction

On Day 182 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Father Mike Schmitz delves into a pivotal moment in Judah's history by exploring 2 Kings 16, Micah chapters 1-4, and Psalm 139. This episode, titled "The Inescapable God," offers listeners a profound journey through biblical narratives, prophetic warnings, and heartfelt prayers, all aimed at deepening their understanding of Scripture and its relevance to contemporary life.

Scripture Readings

1. 2 Kings 16: The Reign of King Ahaz

   Father Mike begins by reading 2 Kings 16, which chronicles the reign of King Ahaz of Judah. Ahaz's rule is marked by significant moral and spiritual decline. Unlike his righteous predecessors, Ahaz adopts the idolatrous practices of the surrounding nations, even going so far as to burn his own son as an offering—a practice abhorrent to the Jewish faith.

   "And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel... he even burned his son as an offering according to the abominable practices of the nations." [2 Kings 16:3:45]

   Father Mike highlights Ahaz's desperate political maneuvering, seeking Assyrian assistance against hostile neighbors instead of relying on divine support. This alliance with Assyria not only compromises Judah's spiritual integrity but also sets the stage for future turmoil.

2. Micah Chapters 1-4: Prophetic Warnings and Promises

   Transitioning to the prophetic voice of Micah, Father Mike reads Micah 1-4, where the prophet delivers stern warnings against societal corruption, injustice, and false prophecy. Micah condemns the leaders and prophets of Judah for their wickedness and deceit, emphasizing the inevitable judgment that will befall the nation.

   "Woe to those who devise wickedness and work evil upon their beds when the morning dawns." [Micah 3:7:15]

   Despite the grim outlook, Micah also offers a beacon of hope, foreseeing a future of restoration and peace. He envisions a time when the Lord's house will be exalted, and nations will seek divine wisdom, reflecting the ultimate triumph of God's plan.

   "In those days it shall come to pass that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established as the highest of mountains." [Micah 4:1:5]

3. Psalm 139: The Inescapable God

   Concluding the readings, Father Mike presents Psalm 139, a profound meditation on God's omnipresence and intimate knowledge of the individual. This psalm reassures believers of God's constant presence and unwavering guidance, regardless of circumstances.

   "Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence?" [Psalm 139:7:10]

   Father Mike praises the psalmist's recognition of God's intricate creation and unwavering care, encouraging listeners to embrace this divine closeness in their daily lives.

Reflections and Insights

Father Mike offers deep reflections on the interconnectedness of the readings, drawing parallels between the historical context of Judah and broader spiritual lessons:

1. Ahaz’s Apostasy and Its Consequences

   Ahaz's rejection of Yahweh and adoption of Canaanite practices exemplify the peril of political alliances devoid of faith. Father Mike notes:

   "Ahaz is turning away from even the worship of Yahweh... he is worshiping these false gods." [02:35:20]

   This spiritual decline not only weakens Judah internally but also leaves it vulnerable to external threats, illustrating the destructive power of forsaking divine guidance.

2. Micah’s Dual Message: Judgment and Hope

   Micah's prophecies serve as both a condemnation of current injustices and a promise of future restoration. Father Mike emphasizes the balance between judgment and hope:

   "Even in the midst of judgment, God promises to gather a remnant and guide them as a good shepherd." [03:15:40]

   This dual message underscores the importance of repentance while assuring believers of God's enduring mercy and plan for redemption.

3. The Inescapable Presence of God

   Psalm 139 reinforces the theme of God's omnipresence, complementing the prophetic messages by reminding listeners that God's guidance and presence are constant, even amidst turmoil and uncertainty.

   "You knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am wonderfully made." [Psalm 139:13:2]

   Father Mike connects this assurance to the earlier readings, suggesting that despite human failings and societal collapse, God's presence remains steadfast and redemptive.

4. Connections to the New Testament and Eternal Hope

   Father Mike draws connections between the Old Testament narratives and New Testament fulfillment, particularly highlighting Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of Micah's prophecies:

   "Jesus is the good shepherd who gathers the remnant and offers ultimate restoration." [04:10:55]

   This perspective encourages believers to view the Scriptures as a cohesive story leading to Christ, reinforcing the transformative power of God's Word.

Notable Quotes

• "Ahaz not only de-emphasizes the actual altar in the temple... but he also acts as priest by offering up false sacrifices." [02:50:15]

• "Micah is preaching at the same time as Isaiah, offering both judgment and a promise of restoration." [03:45:30]

• "For you formed my inward parts, you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am wondrously made." [Psalm 139:14:05]

Conclusion and Prayer Reflections

Father Mike concludes the episode by weaving together the lessons from the day's readings, urging listeners to seek God amidst personal and societal challenges. He emphasizes the importance of repentance, faithfulness, and relying on God's inescapable presence.

In his prayer, Father Mike echoes the themes of Psalm 139, asking for divine help to remain steadfast and open to God's guidance:

"Help us to let you find us, Help us to seek after you and not run from you... We make this prayer in Jesus' name." [04:50:00]

Final Thoughts

Day 182 serves as a powerful midpoint in "The Bible in a Year" journey, reflecting on the consequences of spiritual decline and the enduring promise of God's presence and restoration. Through Father Mike Schmitz's insightful commentary, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate tapestry of Scripture, understanding how historical events and prophetic voices converge to reveal God's unwavering love and plan for humanity.

Key Takeaways:

• The dangers of forsaking God: Ahaz's reign exemplifies the perils of abandoning divine guidance in favor of political and idolatrous practices.

• Prophetic duality: Micah's messages balance dire warnings with hopeful promises, highlighting the need for repentance and the assurance of God's restorative plans.

• Divine omnipresence: Psalm 139 reassures believers of God's constant presence, encouraging reliance on His guidance in all aspects of life.

• Scriptural continuity: The connections drawn between Old and New Testament themes emphasize the cohesive and redemptive nature of the Bible's narrative.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on these lessons, fostering a deeper relationship with Scripture and a stronger faith foundation as they continue their year-long journey through the Bible.