The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) - Episode Summary: Day 23: Judah Changes (2025)

Episode Overview

In Day 23 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves deep into the transformative narratives of Genesis, Job, and Proverbs. This episode, titled "Judah Changes," explores themes of repentance, transformation, and the enduring power of God's grace. Through a blend of scripture readings, insightful reflections, and guided prayers, Fr. Mike bridges ancient texts with contemporary life, offering listeners a profound understanding of how biblical stories resonate today.

Scripture Readings

Genesis 42-43: The Story of Joseph and His Brothers

Fr. Mike begins by setting the stage with Genesis chapters 42 and 43, recounting the tense reunion between Joseph and his brothers in Egypt. This segment highlights the brothers' journey from betrayal to reconciliation, emphasizing Judah's pivotal role in safeguarding his family.

Genesis 42:8-9
"Judah said to Israel, 'Send the lad with me. And we will arise and go, that we may live and not die. Both we and you, and also our little ones. I will be surety for him of my hand. You shall require him."
[00:15]

Job 35-36: Elihu's Challenge to Self-Righteousness

Transitioning to the Book of Job, Fr. Mike reads Job chapters 35 and 36, focusing on Elihu's discourse against self-righteousness. Elihu underscores the futility of pride and the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty.

Job 35:36-37
"I will fetch my knowledge from afar and ascribe righteousness to my Maker, for truly my words are not false. One who is perfect in knowledge is with you."
[15:30]

Proverbs 4:10-19: The Path of Wisdom vs. The Way of the Wicked

Finally, from Proverbs 4, verses 10 through 19, Fr. Mike emphasizes the stark contrast between the paths of the righteous and the wicked, advocating for steadfastness in wisdom and moral integrity.

Proverbs 4:18-19
"But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day. The way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know over what they stumble."
[25:00]

Reflections and Insights

Transformation of Judah

Fr. Mike delves into the character arc of Judah, one of Jacob's twelve sons. Initially portrayed as impulsive and morally compromised, Judah's evolution is a testament to personal transformation through divine intervention.

Fr. Mike Schmitz:
"Judah is now the one that we can all look to and say, if I have the choice, if I had the chance to spare my parents, to spare my siblings... let me be like Judah."
[35:45]

He juxtaposes Judah's earlier transgressions with his later act of self-sacrifice, highlighting the profound change in his character. This transformation serves as a powerful example that no one is irrevocably bound by their past sins when they seek God's grace.

Themes of Repentance and Grace

The episode underscores the biblical principle that genuine repentance leads to redemption. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the brokenness exhibited by biblical characters mirrors our own struggles, yet it is through acknowledging our flaws and seeking God's mercy that true change occurs.

Fr. Mike Schmitz:
"We are broken, yes we're messy, that's the key words we've been following. But also that we can change."
[40:20]

Interconnectedness of the Scriptures

By intertwining stories from Genesis, Job, and Proverbs, Fr. Mike illustrates the cohesive narrative of the Bible. He demonstrates how themes of leadership, humility, wisdom, and righteousness are interwoven, providing a holistic understanding of God's plan for humanity.

Guided Prayer

The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer led by Fr. Mike, invoking God's presence and seeking His guidance in applying the learned scriptures to daily life. The prayer reflects the episode's themes, asking for the strength to change and the wisdom to follow God's path.

Fr. Mike Schmitz:
"God in heaven, we thank you and praise you. You are our good Father... We ask that you please continue to send your Holy Spirit upon us as we listen to your word."
[55:00]

Key Takeaways

1. Capacity for Change:
   Judah's transformation from a flawed individual to a selfless leader exemplifies the potential for personal growth and redemption through faith.

2. Importance of Repentance:
   Acknowledging one's sins and seeking God's forgiveness is crucial for spiritual healing and renewal.

3. Wisdom and Righteousness:
   Embracing wisdom leads to a fulfilling and righteous life, while straying into wickedness leads to darkness and uncertainty.

4. Interconnectivity of Biblical Narratives:
   Understanding the Bible as a unified story enhances comprehension of its teachings and their relevance to contemporary life.

Conclusion

Day 23 of The Bible in a Year podcast offers a profound exploration of transformation, grace, and wisdom through the intertwined stories of Joseph's brothers, Elihu's challenge in Job, and the guidance in Proverbs. Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully connects these narratives, providing listeners with both theological insights and practical applications. This episode serves as a reminder that, regardless of past missteps, individuals have the capacity to change and align themselves more closely with God's will.

As Fr. Mike aptly puts it:

Fr. Mike Schmitz:
"With God's grace, every one of us can change. That's why we're doing this Bible in a year is because we need to be reminded of the fact that God truly does want us, that he is communicating himself to us."
[1:05:30]

Listeners are encouraged to internalize the lessons from Judah's transformation, embrace the wisdom of Proverbs, and continuously seek God's guidance in their spiritual journeys.

Resources:

• The Bible in a Year Reading Plan: ascensionpress.com/bibleina-year
• Subscribe to the podcast via your preferred podcast app.
• Receive updates by texting Catholic Bible to 33777.

God bless you, and may your journey through the Bible continue to enlighten and transform your life.