The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Episode: Day 27: The Birth of Moses (2025)
Release Date: January 27, 2025
Duration: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Produced by: Ascension
Overview
In Day 27 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the pivotal narrative of Moses' birth, marking the transition from the Patriarchs to the Exodus period. This episode intertwines readings from Exodus chapters 1-2, Leviticus chapter 1, and Psalm 44, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of Israel's journey from slavery in Egypt to the establishment of divine worship practices. Fr. Mike provides insightful reflections, contextual explanations, and heartfelt prayers, fostering a deeper connection with Scripture.
Scripture Readings
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Exodus Chapters 1-2
- Summary: The Israelites, having multiplied in Egypt, face oppression under a new Pharaoh who does not remember Joseph. Pharaoh's decree to enslave the Israelites and kill newborn Hebrew boys sets the stage for Moses' miraculous survival and eventual rise as their leader.
- Notable Passage:
"Then a man from the house of Levi went and took to a wife a daughter of Levi... And he named him Moses, for she said, 'Because I drew him out of the water.'"
(00:15:30)
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Leviticus Chapter 1
- Summary: This chapter outlines the detailed procedures for burnt offerings, emphasizing the importance of sacrifice and atonement in the covenant community. It highlights the meticulous nature of worship and the role of priests in mediating between God and the people.
- Notable Passage:
"If his offering is a burnt offering from the flock, he shall offer a male without blemish... It is a burnt offering, an offering by fire, a pleasing odor to the Lord."
(00:25:45)
-
Psalm 44
- Summary: A national lament expressing Israel's anguish over their suffering and defeat, despite their faithfulness. It juxtaposes past divine interventions with present despair, culminating in a plea for God's intervention and deliverance.
- Notable Passage:
"Our heart has not turned back, nor have our steps departed from your way... Rise up. Come to our help."
(00:35:10)
Reflections and Insights
Fr. Mike transitions seamlessly from scripture readings to deep reflections, drawing connections between the Old Testament narratives and contemporary faith practices.
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God’s Unwavering Presence Amidst Oppression
- Insight: Despite the Israelites' bondage, God remains steadfast, blessing them with growth and strength. This paradox underscores the complexity of divine providence and the hidden ways God works through adversity.
- Quote:
"Here are the Israelites who are growing in their families. They're being blessed with children."
(00:45:00)
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The Significance of Sacrifice in Worship
- Insight: The detailed sacrificial system in Leviticus foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. Fr. Mike emphasizes the continuity between Old Testament worship and Catholic Mass, highlighting how ancient rituals find their fulfillment in the New Covenant.
- Quote:
"The moment of presentation in Leviticus is similar to the presentation in the Mass where we offer our sacrifice to the Father."
(00:52:30)
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The Role of Priests and the Levitical Tradition
- Insight: The transition of priestly duties from family heads to the tribe of Levi signifies a shift towards a dedicated mediating class, prefiguring the established priesthood in the Catholic Church.
- Quote:
"Here is the father who brings the burnt offering... there is an element where he participates by bringing his sacrifice."
(00:55:10)
Guided Prayer
Fr. Mike leads a heartfelt prayer, interweaving themes from the readings:
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Prayer for Couples Struggling with Pregnancy:
- Content: Invokes God's blessing for couples desiring children, praying for conception, healthy pregnancies, and comfort for those who have experienced loss.
- Quote:
"Lord God, in the name of your son, Jesus Christ, bless these couples... console their hearts."
(01:05:20)
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Prayer for Community and Unity:
- Content: Emphasizes communal support, unity through prayer, and the transformative power of Scripture in fostering a new perspective on life and relationships.
- Quote:
"We are walking together because we're praying for each other... let God's Word wash over us and give us a new way of seeing the world."
(01:10:45)
Conclusion and Forward Look
Fr. Mike wraps up the episode by expressing his enthusiasm for the journey through Exodus and Leviticus. He underscores the importance of understanding the Old Testament to fully appreciate the New Covenant practices and the Eucharist in the Mass. Fr. Mike encourages listeners to engage with the reading plan available at Ascension Press and assures them of mutual prayers and support throughout their biblical journey.
- Quote:
"This is such a gift to be able to walk through scripture with you. You are not walking alone."
(01:15:30)
Key Takeaways
- Understanding Context: Grasping the historical and spiritual context of the Exodus provides deeper insights into God's enduring commitment to His people.
- Sacrificial Worship: The sacrificial system laid out in Leviticus is foundational to Catholic worship practices, particularly the Eucharist.
- Faith Through Adversity: Psalm 44 serves as a reminder of the community's reliance on God during times of suffering and the importance of unwavering faith.
Resources and Further Engagement
- Great Adventure Bible Timeline: Available through the Great Adventure Bible by Ascension, aiding in visualizing the biblical narrative.
- Reading Plan: Listeners can access the comprehensive Bible in a Year reading plan at ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
- Subscription: Stay updated by subscribing to the podcast on your preferred platform.
Fr. Mike Schmitz invites listeners to continue this transformative journey through Scripture, promising enriched understanding and a closer walk with God.