Podcast Summary: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Episode: Day 221: Walking with Wise Men (2025)
Release Date: August 9, 2025
Introduction
In Day 221 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Father Mike Schmitz delves into a profound exploration of Scripture, intertwining readings from Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Proverbs with insightful reflections and heartfelt prayers. This episode, titled "Walking with Wise Men," emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with wisdom and the profound effects of one's companions on personal growth and spiritual journey.
Biblical Readings
Isaiah 63 & 64
Father Mike begins by reading from Isaiah chapters 63 and 64, presenting themes of divine vengeance juxtaposed with God's mercy. The passages recount God's righteous anger against His enemies and His unwavering love and mercy towards Israel. Key verses highlight the tension between justice and compassion, illustrating God's multifaceted relationship with His people.
Ezekiel 21 & 22
The readings continue with Ezekiel chapters 21 and 22, where the Prophet Ezekiel conveys God's stern judgments against Jerusalem. These chapters underscore the rampant sins within the city, including injustice, idolatry, and moral decay. The imagery of a sharpened sword symbolizes impending judgment, while the absence of true prophets exacerbates the city's downfall.
Proverbs 13:6, 17, 20
Concluding the readings, Father Mike presents selected verses from Proverbs 13, focusing on the influence of one's companions. The chosen verses emphasize the pivotal role of wise associations in shaping character and destiny.
Reflections and Insights
Father Mike transitions from Scripture to reflection, drawing connections between the biblical texts and contemporary life.
The Influence of Companions
At [16:30], Father Mike highlights Proverbs 13:20:
"He who walks with wise men becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm."
He discusses the profound impact that companions have on one's wisdom and spiritual integrity. Drawing from a speaker's assertion that "we are the average of the five people we spend the most time with," Father Mike explores the balance between associating with those striving for holiness and extending grace to those in need of redemption.
God's Justice and Mercy
At [12:15], Father Mike reflects on Isaiah 63:6-7, emphasizing the harmony between God's justice and mercy:
"I trod them in my anger, and trampled them in my wrath... I will recount the merciful love of the Lord... according to the abundance of his steadfast love."
He underscores that God's justice and mercy are not conflicting attributes but complementary aspects of His divine nature, offering both rightful judgment and boundless compassion.
Standing in the Breach
Drawing from Ezekiel 22:30 at [38:45], Father Mike contemplates the absence of intercessors:
"Where is he who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land?"
He challenges listeners to consider their roles as intercessors, urging them to actively pray and stand in the breach for others, much like biblical figures Abraham and Moses. This act of intercession is portrayed as essential in mediating God's mercy and preventing impending judgment.
Prayer and Conclusion
The episode concludes with a guided prayer led by Father Mike, focusing on gratitude and intercession. He emphasizes the importance of community in walking with the Lord, fostering relationships that encourage mutual spiritual growth. The prayer serves as a heartfelt appeal for God's continued guidance, mercy, and the strength to associate with wise and holy companions.
Father Mike's closing remarks reinforce the episode's themes:
"Those who walk with the wise become wise. Those who walk with the holy become holy. Those who walk with those who love God become lovers of God."
He encourages listeners to reflect on their relationships and their roles in interceding for others, leaving them with a sense of purpose and the imperative to cultivate meaningful, spiritually enriching connections.
Key Takeaways
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The Power of Companionship: Surrounding oneself with wise and holy individuals fosters personal and spiritual growth, aligning one's path with divine wisdom.
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Balanced Divine Attributes: God's nature encompasses both justice and mercy, providing righteous judgment while offering unmerited favor and compassion.
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Active Intercession: Believers are called to stand in the breach for others, advocating for God's mercy and acting as mediators to prevent judgment.
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Scriptural Harmony: The episode illustrates how different books of the Bible interweave themes of judgment, mercy, wisdom, and community, offering a comprehensive understanding of salvation history.
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Personal Responsibility: Each individual plays a crucial role in their spiritual journey and in the collective well-being of their faith community through intentional relationships and prayerful intercession.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Proverbs 13:20 Reflection [16:30]:
"He who walks with wise men becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm."
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Isaiah on Justice and Mercy [12:15]:
"I trod them in my anger, and trampled them in my wrath... I will recount the merciful love of the Lord... according to the abundance of his steadfast love."
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Ezekiel on Intercession [38:45]:
"Where is he who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land?"
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Closing Reflection [45:20]:
"Those who walk with the wise become wise. Those who walk with the holy become holy. Those who walk with those who love God become lovers of God."
Conclusion
Day 221 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast offers a deep dive into the interplay of divine justice and mercy, the significance of wise companionship, and the vital role of intercession. Father Mike Schmitz masterfully connects ancient Scripture to modern life, encouraging listeners to cultivate relationships that reflect God's wisdom and to actively engage in prayerful intercession for themselves and others. This episode serves as a beacon for those seeking to align their lives more closely with biblical teachings and to understand the cohesive narrative of salvation history.