The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Episode: Day 31: Frogs, Gnats, and Flies (2025)

Release Date: January 31, 2025
Duration: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Overview

In Day 31 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into a compelling blend of scripture readings from Exodus 8, Leviticus 6, and Psalm 48. This episode navigates the narrative of the plagues in Egypt, the establishment of worship laws, and a heartfelt psalm of praise. Fr. Mike offers insightful reflections, drawing parallels between the biblical text and contemporary spiritual journeys, encouraging listeners to internalize and act upon God's word daily.

Scripture Readings

1. Exodus 8:
   Fr. Mike explores the second and third plagues—the frogs and gnats—that God sends upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. He highlights Pharaoh's hardened heart despite the escalating signs of divine power.

2. Leviticus 6:
   The focus shifts to the laws concerning guilt offerings and burnt offerings. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of atonement and the procedures for maintaining holiness in worship.

3. Psalm 48:
   This psalm of the sons of Korah celebrates the glory and strength of Zion. Fr. Mike underscores the themes of God's protection, victory, and everlasting presence in the city of God.

Reflections and Insights

Fr. Mike Schmitz offers a profound reflection on the scriptures, using metaphors to illustrate the multifaceted impact of God's word:

• Flashlight, Mirror, and Sandpaper:
  Fr. Mike describes the Bible as a flashlight that illuminates aspects of our lives, a mirror that reflects our true selves, and sandpaper that refines and convicts us. He states,

  "Sometimes the Bible is a flashlight, a mirror, and sandpaper all at once"
  (12:45)

• Pharaoh's Heart as a Mirror:
  Drawing from the account in Exodus 8, Fr. Mike draws a parallel between Pharaoh's reluctance to heed God's commands and the common human tendency to procrastinate spiritual growth. He remarks,

  "Isn't that just like us? The Lord may want to deliver us, and we say, 'How about tomorrow?'"
  (18:30)
  This analogy serves as a mirror, reflecting our own hesitations and resistance to embracing God's guidance promptly.

• Community and Consistency:
  Emphasizing the importance of collective prayer and consistent engagement with scripture, Fr. Mike encourages listeners to avoid falling into the trap of inconsistency or seeking shortcuts, such as speeding through readings.

  "This is a reminder: make use of today. Don't put it off."
  (21:10)

• Transformation Through the Holy Spirit:
  Fr. Mike underscores the necessity of the Holy Spirit in facilitating true transformation and adherence to God's will. He prays for the Holy Spirit's presence to empower believers to overcome internal resistance and fully embrace their spiritual journey.

  "We pray that the Lord gives us his Holy Spirit and fills us with his Holy Spirit."
  (24:05)

Guided Prayer

The episode culminates in a heartfelt prayer where Fr. Mike petitions for God's mercy, justice, and love to manifest in the lives of listeners. He emphasizes the communal aspect of prayer and mutual support in the faith journey. Fr. Mike concludes with a blessing, reinforcing the theme of unity and collective spiritual growth.

"Lord Jesus, we ask that you send your Holy Spirit... the advocate, the helper, the comforter, the convictor... living in our midst right now and in every moment."
(26:50)

Key Takeaways

• Understanding God's Timing:
  The narrative of the plagues teaches patience and trust in God's timing, urging believers to respond promptly to divine calls rather than delaying spiritual commitments.

• Maintaining Holiness in Worship:
  The laws outlined in Leviticus highlight the significance of proper worship practices and atonement, reinforcing the necessity of intentionality in one's relationship with God.

• Celebrating God's Dominion:
  Psalm 48 serves as a reminder of God's enduring strength and sovereignty, encouraging believers to recognize and celebrate His everlasting presence and protection.

• Personal Reflection and Growth:
  Fr. Mike's reflections challenge listeners to introspect, identify personal resistances akin to Pharaoh's heart, and seek the Holy Spirit's guidance to foster genuine spiritual transformation.

Notable Quotes

• On Scripture's Role:

  "Sometimes the Bible is a flashlight, a mirror, and sandpaper all at once."
  (12:45)

• On Personal Resistance:

  "Isn't that just like us? The Lord may want to deliver us, and we say, 'How about tomorrow?'"
  (18:30)

• On Consistency in Faith:

  "This is a reminder: make use of today. Don't put it off."
  (21:10)

• On the Holy Spirit's Presence:

  "We pray that the Lord gives us his Holy Spirit and fills us with his Holy Spirit."
  (24:05)

Conclusion

Day 31 of The Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz offers a rich exploration of scripture, weaving together narratives of divine intervention, laws of worship, and heartfelt psalms to inspire and challenge believers. Through insightful reflections and sincere prayers, Fr. Mike invites listeners to deepen their understanding of God's word, recognize personal barriers to faith, and rely on the Holy Spirit for continual growth and transformation. This episode serves as both a guide and a companion for those committed to reading and living the Bible throughout the year.