The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Episode: Day 4: The Flood (2025) Release Date: January 4, 2025

Introduction

In Day 4: The Flood, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides listeners through the dramatic and foundational narrative of Noah and the Great Flood, as depicted in Genesis chapters 7 and 9, and Psalm 1. Utilizing the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, Fr. Mike not only recounts the events but also delves deep into their theological and moral implications, offering reflections that resonate with contemporary life.

Scriptural Readings

Fr. Mike begins the episode by outlining the day’s readings:

• Genesis 7-9: The story of Noah, the ark, the Flood, and God's covenant.
• Psalm 1: A meditation on the way of the righteous versus the way of the wicked.

He emphasizes the use of the Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition (RSVCE) for consistency and encourages listeners to follow along using the Great Adventure Bible available through Ascension.

The Story of Noah and the Flood

God’s Command and Noah’s Obedience

Fr. Mike recounts God's instruction to Noah to build an ark in preparation for the impending Flood, emphasizing Noah's righteousness and unwavering obedience:

(00:04) "Noah was righteous before the Lord and did all that the Lord commanded him."

This obedience is highlighted through the meticulous details of building the ark and gathering pairs of clean and unclean animals, showcasing Noah's dedication to preserving life as per God's directive.

The Onset of the Flood

As Fr. Mike narrates the onset of the Flood:

(01:21) "In the 600th year of Noah's life, in the second month, on the 17th day of the month, all the fountains of the great deep burst forth..."

He illustrates the total devastation the Flood brought, wiping out all life except those aboard the ark, symbolizing both judgment and mercy.

God’s Covenant and the Rainbow

A pivotal moment in the narrative is God's establishment of a covenant with Noah, symbolized by the rainbow:

(07:51) "This is the sign of the covenant which I make between me and you."

Fr. Mike reflects on the rainbow as a powerful symbol of God's promise never to destroy the earth with a flood again, representing divine mercy and the enduring relationship between God and creation.

Reflection on Human Nature and Covenant

Fr. Mike delves into the deeper theological meanings of the covenant, particularly focusing on human nature and divine expectations:

(06:00) "Whoever sheds the blood of man by man shall his blood be shed. For God made man in his own image."

He discusses the inherent brokenness of the human heart, referencing the Catechism (paragraphs 2260, 2416, and 2417), which underscores humanity's role in stewarding God's creation responsibly. This stewardship includes a balance between using animals for sustenance and upholding the sanctity of human life, reflecting the profound differences between the treatment of humans and animals in God's design.

The Story of Noah’s Sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth

Fr. Mike explores the subsequent narrative involving Noah's sons, highlighting themes of respect, honor, and familial discord:

(09:43) "He became drunk and lay uncovered in his tent. And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father."

He interprets Ham's actions as a severe breach of familial respect, potentially symbolizing deeper acts of disrespect and tyranny, leading to the curse of Canaan. In contrast, Shem and Japheth are commended for their honorable behavior, covering their father's nakedness without looking, signifying respect and righteousness.

Fr. Mike connects this story to the recurring theme of broken families throughout Scripture, emphasizing the persistent struggle between human sinfulness and the call to live under God's grace and authority.

Meditation on Psalm 1

Transitioning to Psalm 1, Fr. Mike contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked:

(09:43) "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked... He is like a tree planted by streams of water."

He reflects on the prosperity and stability that come from delighting in God's law, juxtaposed with the futility and eventual destruction awaiting the wicked. This Psalm serves as a moral compass, encouraging listeners to align their lives with divine wisdom and righteousness.

Prayer and Conclusion

Fr. Mike concludes the episode with a heartfelt prayer, thanking God for His unwavering love and faithfulness. He acknowledges the duality of creation—its potential for both good and ill—and reaffirms reliance on God's dominion and grace:

(10:09) "Father in heaven, we thank you for revealing your love and faithfulness... We place our lives in your hands."

He exhorts listeners to continue their spiritual journey, seeking daily guidance and mutual prayer support, reinforcing the communal aspect of faith and study.

Key Takeaways

• Noah’s righteousness and obedience serve as a model of faithfulness amidst widespread corruption.
• God’s covenant symbolizes enduring mercy and the establishment of a harmonious relationship with creation.
• Human brokenness, as illustrated by Noah’s family, underscores the need for divine grace and the constant struggle between sin and righteousness.
• Psalm 1 offers a timeless lesson on the blessings of living in accordance with God’s will versus the inevitable downfall of those who reject it.
• Stewardship of creation involves responsible use and care for animals, coupled with the sanctity of human life.

Notable Quotes

• Fr. Mike Schmitz (00:04): "Noah was righteous before the Lord and did all that the Lord commanded him."

• Fr. Mike Schmitz (07:51): "This is the sign of the covenant which I make between me and you."

• Fr. Mike Schmitz (06:00): "Whoever sheds the blood of man by man shall his blood be shed. For God made man in his own image."

• Fr. Mike Schmitz (09:43): "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked... He is like a tree planted by streams of water."

Final Thoughts

Day 4 of The Bible in a Year podcast offers a profound exploration of Noah’s narrative, intertwining biblical exegesis with practical reflections on faith, human nature, and divine covenant. Fr. Mike Schmitz effectively bridges ancient scripture with modern-day application, encouraging listeners to internalize and live out the lessons of the Flood story and Psalm 1 in their personal spiritual journeys.