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Day 359: John's Apocalypse (2024)

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

Published: Tue Dec 24 2024

As we begin reading from Revelation, Fr. Mike makes us aware of the symbolism found throughout this apocalyptic book and highlights its goal of strengthening the Church through the worship that happens at Mass. He also encourages us to find strength in God when facing challenges, just as Paul did. Today’s readings are Revelation 1-3, 2 Timothy 3-4, and Proverbs 31:8-9.

Summary

The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) - Episode Summary

Episode: Day 359: John's Apocalypse (2024)
Release Date: December 24, 2024
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Produced by: Ascension

Introduction

In the culminating episode of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides listeners through the final passages of the Bible, focusing on the profound and often enigmatic Book of Revelation. This episode, Day 359, intertwines readings from Revelation chapters 1-3, the concluding sections of St. Paul's second letter to Timothy (chapters 3-4), and Proverbs 31:8-9. Fr. Mike not only reads these scriptures but also delves deep into their meanings, offering reflections, insights, and heartfelt prayers to encapsulate a year-long journey through the Bible.

Scripture Readings

  1. Revelation (Chapters 1-3)

    • Overview: Fr. Mike presents the apocalyptic visions of John, emphasizing the symbolic language and the messages to the seven churches in Asia.
    • Key Passages:
      • Revelation 1:1-8: Introduction and Salutation
      • Revelation 1:9-20: Vision of Christ and the Seven Lampstands
      • Revelation 2-3: Messages to the Seven Churches (Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea)

  2. 2 Timothy (Chapters 3-4)

    • Overview: Fr. Mike reads Paul's final exhortations to Timothy, highlighting themes of perseverance, faith, and the challenges of the last days.
    • Key Passages:
      • 2 Timothy 3: Description of Godlessness in the Last Days
      • 2 Timothy 4: Paul's Charge to Timothy and Final Greetings

  3. Proverbs (Chapter 31, Verses 8-9)

    • Passage: "Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are left desolate. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and maintain the rights of the poor and needy."

Reflections and Insights

Reflections on 2 Timothy (00:20 - 18:45)

Fr. Mike begins by exploring the emotional depth of Paul's letters, particularly his heartfelt admonitions to Timothy. He underscores Paul's acknowledgment of upcoming suffering and opposition, drawing parallels to the listeners' own spiritual journeys.

  • Notable Quote:
    "As Paul is writing about the sacred writings, he's talking about the Old Testament... the New Testament is hidden in the Old, and the Old is revealed in the New." ([Timestamp: 25:30])

Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of steadfastness and the transformative power of Scripture in guiding believers through trials. He highlights Paul's plea for Timothy to remain faithful, reflecting on the broader theme of enduring faith amidst adversity.

Insights on Revelation (18:46 - 58:30)

Delving into Revelation, Fr. Mike demystifies the often-intimidating apocalyptic imagery. He provides historical context, discussing the possible dating of the text during the reigns of emperors Domitian or Nero, and explains the symbolic significance of numbers like 10 and 12.

  • Notable Quotes:
    "When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead." ([Timestamp: 45:10]) – Fr. Mike reflects on John's reverent response to the divine vision, drawing parallels to personal experiences of encountering the sacred.
    "He who conquers is granted to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God." ([Timestamp: 52:20])

Fr. Mike unpacks the messages to the seven churches, particularly focusing on Ephesus' commendable works but admonishing their waning love. He connects these insights to contemporary Christian life, urging listeners to rekindle their love and devotion.

  • Key Themes Discussed:
    • Symbolism in Revelation: Understanding numbers and imagery.
    • Historical Context: Linking the text to early Christian persecution.
    • Messages to the Churches: Practical applications for modern believers.
    • Eucharistic Significance: Drawing connections between Revelation's promises and the Eucharist.

Fr. Mike also explores the intimate promises Jesus makes to the churches, such as the gift of a "white stone with a new name" ([Timestamp: 55:45]), highlighting the personal and relational aspect of faith.

Proverbs Reflection (58:31 - 60:15)

Closing the scripture readings, Fr. Mike reflects on Proverbs 31:8-9, emphasizing the call to advocate for the marginalized and uphold justice. He relates this to the broader biblical narrative of love, service, and righteousness.

  • Notable Quote:
    "Judge righteously and maintain the rights of the poor and needy." ([Timestamp: 59:00])

Concluding Thoughts and Prayer (60:16 - End)

Fr. Mike concludes the episode with a heartfelt prayer, expressing gratitude for the journey through the Bible and seeking divine assistance to "end well." He echoes the sentiment of finishing stronger than we begin, aligning with the overarching theme of perseverance found in both Revelation and 2 Timothy.

  • Notable Prayer Excerpts:
    "Help us to end well, we make this our prayer."
    "From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord the Righteous Judge, will award to me on that day."

Fr. Mike also offers personal reflections, sharing his aspirations for listeners to embody the steadfastness and love exemplified by biblical figures. He encourages ongoing prayer and community support as they transition from this year-long Bible journey.

Key Takeaways

  • Perseverance in Faith: Emulating Paul's and John's unwavering commitment amidst trials.
  • Understanding Revelation: Embracing its symbolic language to strengthen faith and hope.
  • Renewed Love and Devotion: Rekindling the initial fervor in one's relationship with God.
  • Advocacy and Justice: Upholding the rights of the marginalized as a reflection of Christian duty.
  • Eucharistic Connection: Recognizing the Eucharist as central to spiritual life and the promises of Revelation.

Closing Remarks

Fr. Mike Schmitz wraps up the final episode with a blend of scriptural wisdom and personal encouragement, leaving listeners with a sense of accomplishment and a call to continue their spiritual journey beyond the podcast. His reflections serve as both a celebration of completed study and an invitation to deeper, lifelong engagement with God's Word.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

  • Fr. Mike Schmitz [25:30]:
    "As Paul is writing about the sacred writings, he's talking about the Old Testament... the New Testament is hidden in the Old, and the Old is revealed in the New."

  • Fr. Mike Schmitz [45:10]:
    "When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead."

  • Fr. Mike Schmitz [52:20]:
    "He who conquers is granted to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God."

  • Fr. Mike Schmitz [55:45]:
    "He who conquers, I will give him a white stone with a new name written on the stone, which no one knows except him who receives it."

  • Fr. Mike Schmitz [59:00]:
    "Judge righteously and maintain the rights of the poor and needy."

  • Fr. Mike Schmitz [60:16]:
    "Help us to end well, we make this our prayer."

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of Day 359 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, providing listeners and potential new audience members with a comprehensive overview of the episode's content, themes, and spiritual insights.

No transcript available.