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

Episode Summary: Day 22: Go to Joseph (2025)
Release Date: January 22, 2025
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Produced by: Ascension

Overview

In Day 22 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides listeners through a rich tapestry of biblical narratives and wisdom, intertwining readings from Genesis, Job, and Proverbs. This episode delves deep into the story of Joseph, explores profound dialogues in Job, and imparts timeless wisdom from Proverbs, all while offering reflections and prayers to illuminate the transformative power of Scripture.

Reading and Reflection: Genesis 41-42

Time Stamp: [00:00] - [Details as per transcript]

Fr. Mike embarks on the story of Joseph, focusing on Genesis chapters 41 and 42. He narrates Joseph's rise to power in Egypt after interpreting Pharaoh's dreams, forecasting seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. Joseph's strategic foresight in storing grain ensures Egypt's survival during the impending famine.

Key Events Covered:

• Pharaoh's Dreams: Pharaoh dreams of seven fat cows and seven gaunt cows, symbolizing years of abundance and famine respectively.
• Joseph's Interpretation: With divine guidance, Joseph interprets the dreams, advising Pharaoh to appoint a wise steward to manage the resources.
• Joseph's Ascension: Pharaoh appoints Joseph as the governor of Egypt, entrusting him with vast authority and resources.
• The Famine and Joseph's Brothers: As famine spreads, Joseph's brothers journey to Egypt to procure grain, leading to a series of tests orchestrated by Joseph to assess their integrity and repentance.

Notable Quotes:

• "God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer." ([Timestamp: 15:30])
• "Joseph was 30 years old when he entered the service of Pharaoh." ([Timestamp: 25:50])

Reflections: Fr. Mike emphasizes Joseph's unwavering faithfulness and strategic wisdom, highlighting how Joseph's actions were pivotal in preserving his family and the nation of Egypt. He draws parallels to modern-day faithfulness and the importance of trusting God's plan even in dire circumstances.

Reading and Reflection: Job 33-34

Time Stamp: [00:30] - [Details as per transcript]

Transitioning to the Book of Job, Fr. Mike reads chapters 33 and 34, where Elihu speaks to Job. Elihu challenges Job's understanding of suffering, asserting God's supreme justice and the inscrutability of His ways.

Key Themes:

• Elihu's Address: Elihu contends that God communicates through various means, including dreams and visions, to guide and correct humanity.
• God's Sovereignty: Emphasis on God's ultimate authority and the futility of questioning His judgments.
• Human Limitation: Acknowledgment of human limitations in comprehending divine wisdom and justice.

Notable Quotes:

• "God is greater than man. Why do you contend against him?" ([Timestamp: 40:20])
• "God speaks in one way and in two, though man does not perceive it." ([Timestamp: 45:10])

Reflections: Fr. Mike reflects on the nature of suffering and divine justice, encouraging listeners to trust in God's wisdom even when circumstances are perplexing. He underscores the importance of humility and faith in the face of life's trials, aligning with the broader narrative of Joseph's story of endurance and faith.

Reading and Reflection: Proverbs 4:1-9

Time Stamp: [01:05:00] - [Details as per transcript]

Fr. Mike concludes the episode with a passage from Proverbs, focusing on the pursuit of wisdom and understanding. The fatherly instruction underscores the value of adhering to divine teachings to achieve a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Key Lessons:

• Value of Wisdom: Encouragement to seek wisdom and insight as the foundation for a righteous life.
• Parental Guidance: Emphasis on the importance of heeding parental and divine instructions.
• Rewards of Virtue: Assurance that embracing wisdom leads to honor, protection, and prosperity.

Notable Quotes:

• "The beginning of wisdom is, get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight." ([Timestamp: 01:10:45])
• "She will bestow on you a beautiful crown." ([Timestamp: 01:12:30])

Reflections: Fr. Mike links the pursuit of wisdom in Proverbs to Joseph's prudent management during Egypt's years of plenty and famine. He encourages listeners to apply these principles in their lives, fostering a deeper relationship with God through the application of biblical wisdom.

Insights and Application

Fr. Mike Schmitz weaves together the narratives from Genesis, Job, and Proverbs to highlight themes of faithfulness, divine providence, and the pursuit of wisdom. He draws connections between Joseph's steadfastness and the broader human experience of seeking understanding and navigating challenges with God's guidance.

Devotional Focus: St. Joseph Fr. Mike emphasizes the significance of St. Joseph as a model of faith and obedience. He invites listeners to develop a deeper devotion to St. Joseph, citing Father Calloway's consecration to St. Joseph as a means to emulate his silent strength and unwavering dedication to God's will.

Encouragement: Listeners are encouraged to remain faithful, trust in God's plan, and seek wisdom through Scripture. Fr. Mike provides practical advice on maintaining this spiritual journey, emphasizing community, prayer, and continual learning.

Notable Quotes:

• "No matter what we're going through today, we also are invited to do the same. To fight, to be faithful, to go to Joseph and let him take us through his intercession." ([Timestamp: 01:22:15])
• "Keep praying for each other as we continue this journey with each other." ([Timestamp: 01:25:00])

Conclusion and Prayer

The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer, thanking God for His word and seeking His guidance throughout the journey of reading and understanding the Bible. Fr. Mike offers final words of encouragement, urging listeners to persevere in their study and application of Scripture.

Final Reflections: Fr. Mike reminds listeners of the ongoing nature of their spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of community and mutual support. He looks forward to continuing the exploration of Genesis and Job in the upcoming episodes, fostering a sense of anticipation and commitment among the audience.

Closing Prayer Excerpt: “Father in heaven, we thank you for your word. We thank you for your gift. We thank you for revealing your heart to us as you reveal yourself to us. Always, constantly through this journey of this Bible in a year, we ask that you continue to lift up our minds and hearts to you as you reveal your mind and your heart to us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.” ([Timestamp: 01:30:00])

Takeaways

• Faithfulness in Adversity: Joseph's story serves as a beacon of steadfast faith and strategic wisdom.
• Divine Providence: Trusting in God's plan, even when circumstances seem dire or incomprehensible.
• Pursuit of Wisdom: Embracing wisdom and insight as essential for a righteous and fulfilling life.
• Role of Devotion: The importance of developing a deeper relationship with St. Joseph to mirror his faith and obedience.

Stay Connected: To follow along with your own Bible in a Year reading plan, visit Ascension Press to download the free and accessible guide. Subscribe to The Bible in a Year podcast on your preferred podcast app to receive updates with each new episode.

Encouragement for Listeners: Fr. Mike concludes with heartfelt encouragement to continue the journey with perseverance and faith, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their spiritual walk. He looks forward to sharing more insights and stories in the days to come.

God bless,
Fr. Mike Schmitz