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

Episode: Day 334: The Meaning of Fasting (2024)
Release Date: November 29, 2024

Overview

In Day 334 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the biblical practice of fasting, exploring its significance, purpose, and application in the lives of believers. Using the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, Fr. Mike guides listeners through selected scriptures from Acts, 1 Corinthians, and Proverbs, providing insightful reflections that connect ancient texts to contemporary faith journeys.

Scripture Readings

Fr. Mike begins by outlining the day's readings, emphasizing the use of the Revised Standard Version, Second Catholic Edition. The scriptures for Day 334 include:

• Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 13
• 1 Corinthians, Chapters 7 and 8
• Proverbs 28:4-6

These passages set the foundation for discussing fasting, marriage, and moral conduct within the Christian community.

Reflection on Acts 13: The Commissioning of Barnabas and Paul

Fr. Mike highlights the significant moment in Acts 13 where Barnabas and Saul (later known as Paul) are commissioned by the Holy Spirit for their mission work. He notes:

“We're on the last sheet... significant. Well done. Congratulations.” [00:04]

He underscores the role of fasting and prayer in their commissioning:

“Fasting accompanies prayer... they're not just praying, they're also fasting.” [Timestamp not provided]

Key Points:

• Fasting as a Spiritual Discipline: Fr. Mike explains that fasting is not merely abstaining from food but can involve refraining from anything that provides comfort or is relied upon for functioning, such as the snooze button or alcohol.

• Alignment of Body and Spirit: Fasting serves to align one's physical state with spiritual aspirations, fostering a deeper dependence on God.

• Transformation Through Fasting: By emptying oneself, believers become more receptive to God's work and presence.

Insights from 1 Corinthians 7 & 8: Understanding Marriage and Personal Vocation

Fr. Mike delves into Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, focusing on chapters 7 and 8, which discuss marriage and the ethical considerations of eating food offered to idols.

Marriage (1 Corinthians 7):

• Faithfulness in All States: Paul emphasizes being faithful whether one is married or single. He encourages believers to remain in their current state as a means of devotion to the Lord.

  “Let everyone lead the life which the Lord has assigned to him and in which God has called him.” [Timestamp not provided]

• No Magic Bullet for Holiness: Fr. Mike interprets Paul’s message as a call to embrace one’s current life situation without seeking an external change as a means to achieve holiness.

  “Holiness is simply saying yes to God and just never ceasing to say yes.” [Timestamp not provided]

Food Offered to Idols (1 Corinthians 8):

• Knowledge vs. Love: Paul contrasts intellectual understanding with love, highlighting that knowledge can lead to pride, whereas love builds up the community.

  “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.” [Timestamp not provided]

• Avoiding Scandal: Fr. Mike explains the importance of considering how one’s actions affect others' faith. Even if consuming such food is permissible, if it leads a fellow believer to stumble, it should be avoided.

  “If anyone sees you... might he not be encouraged, if his conscience is weak, to eat food offered to idols?” [Timestamp not provided]

Proverbs 28:4-6: Upholding Justice and Integrity

The Proverbs passage reinforces the themes of justice and integrity. Fr. Mike connects these verses to the broader discussion on moral conduct within the community.

“Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law strive against them.” [Proverbs 28:4]

“Is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is perverse in his ways.” [Proverbs 28:6]

Application:

• Moral Responsibility: Believers are called to uphold justice and integrity, serving as beacons of righteousness in society.

• Impact of Actions: The way one lives can influence others’ perceptions and actions, underscoring the importance of personal conduct.

The Meaning and Practice of Fasting

Central to this episode is the exploration of fasting as a spiritual practice. Fr. Mike elaborates on its multifaceted nature:

• Beyond Food Abstinence: Fasting can involve giving up any form of reliance that detracts from spiritual focus, such as habitual behaviors or comforts.

• Historical Context: He references the disciples of John and Jesus, noting the different attitudes toward fasting during their ministries.

  “The disciples of John would fast, and the disciples of Jesus didn't fast... when the bridegroom is taken from them, and then they will fast.” [Timestamp not provided]

• Fasting as Preparation: Fr. Mike emphasizes that fasting prepares believers for receiving God’s work, fostering deeper spiritual alignment and openness.

• Personal Application: He encourages listeners to identify personal areas for fasting that can enhance their spiritual lives, whether through food or other abstentions.

Conclusion and Prayer

Fr. Mike concludes with a heartfelt prayer, asking for the strength to proclaim God's truth and to participate actively in His ongoing story.

“Lord God, as you sent out Paul and Barnabas, please send us out to proclaim your truth... we ask this in Jesus name. Amen.” [Timestamp not provided]

Key Takeaways

• Fasting as a Tool for Spiritual Growth: Fasting is a deliberate practice that aids in spiritual alignment and enhances one’s openness to God’s work.

• Faithfulness in All Life Stages: Embracing and being faithful in one’s current life situation is essential for spiritual fulfillment and holiness.

• Responsibility to the Community: Believers must consider how their actions affect others, ensuring that their conduct supports the faith and integrity of the community.

• Integrity and Justice: Upholding moral integrity and justice is crucial in reflecting God’s righteousness and fostering a just society.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Fr. Mike Schmitz on Fasting:

  “Fasting accompanies prayer... they're not just praying, they're also fasting.” [00:04]

• On Holiness:

  “Holiness is simply saying yes to God and just never ceasing to say yes.” [Timestamp not provided]

• On Knowledge vs. Love:

  “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.” [Chapter 8, 1 Corinthians]

• On Moral Responsibility:

  “Is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is perverse in his ways.” [Proverbs 28:6]

Final Thoughts

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully interweaves scripture readings with practical reflections, offering listeners a deep understanding of fasting and its role in the Christian faith. By connecting ancient teachings to modern-day applications, he provides valuable insights that encourage personal growth, community responsibility, and a closer relationship with God.

Listeners are left with a reinforced understanding that fasting is more than abstaining from food—it is a comprehensive practice that aligns the body and spirit, fosters humility, and enhances one’s capacity to receive and share God’s transformative love.

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