The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 40: Laws of Justice

Release Date: February 9, 2025
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Podcast by: Ascension

Episode Overview

In Day 40 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into a profound exploration of justice and ritual purity as depicted in Exodus 22, Leviticus 15, and Psalm 76. Utilizing the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, Fr. Mike guides listeners through intricate laws and their underlying spiritual significance, revealing the heart of God and the foundational principles for a just community.

Scripture Readings

1. Exodus Chapter 22: Laws of Restitution and Social Justice
2. Leviticus Chapter 15: Laws of Ritual Purity Concerning Bodily Discharges
3. Psalm 76: A Hymn Praising God as the Righteous Judge

Key Discussions and Insights

1. The Journey to Day 40

Fr. Mike begins by acknowledging the dedication of listeners who have persisted through the initial 40 days of the Bible reading journey. He emphasizes that the program is designed to accommodate varying paces, encouraging faithfulness over perfection.

"Striving for perfection is fine, but striving for what I can do is probably even better because what the Lord requires of us is to do simply what we can."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [00:04]

2. Exploring Exodus 22: Principles of Justice

Exodus 22 outlines various laws concerning restitution, social interactions, and religious obligations. Fr. Mike highlights the distinction between justice and vengeance embedded within these laws.

• Restitution Over Vengeance:
  The laws mandate fair compensation for theft or property damage, preventing excessive punishment and promoting societal harmony.

• Social Protections:
  Emphasis is placed on protecting vulnerable populations such as strangers, widows, and orphans, reflecting God's compassion.

• Religious Fidelity:
  The prohibition against idolatry and wrongful sacrifices underscores the importance of unwavering devotion to God.

"The laws of restitution have to do with justice, not vengeance. Our hearts are inclined towards vengeance, but the laws of justice say, nope, there's a limit."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [Timestamp Unknown]

3. Delving into Leviticus 15: Ritual Purity and Sacredness

Leviticus 15 addresses laws regarding bodily discharges, categorizing them into types and prescribing purification rituals. Fr. Mike interprets these laws beyond their literal sense, emphasizing their symbolic significance.

• Sacredness of Life:
  Bodily emissions are connected to life and relationships, necessitating careful handling to maintain communal purity.

• Symbolism of Cleanliness:
  Purification rituals symbolize the removal of spiritual impurity, fostering a sense of holiness and reverence within the community.

"Uncleanness simply means, okay, whether this is an issue of blood, issue of semen, issue of whatever this is, those are things that can bring forth life. We have to be careful around them."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [Timestamp Unknown]

4. Psalm 76: Celebrating God as the Ultimate Judge

Psalm 76 serves as a contrasting backdrop, celebrating God's role as the righteous judge who establishes justice and protects the oppressed.

• God’s Supreme Justice:
  The psalm portrays God as a mighty judge whose judgment instills fear and reverence, ensuring fair treatment for all.

• Call to Worship:
  Encourages believers to offer gifts and praise to God, recognizing His authority and righteousness.

Reflections: Justice and the Heart of God

Fr. Mike emphasizes that the intricate laws in Exodus and Leviticus are not merely ancient regulations but revelations of God's just nature. These laws aim to cultivate a community that mirrors God's justice and respects the sanctity of life and relationships.

"God is revealing his heart. His heart is that of a just God, a just God who's trying to raise up a just people."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [Timestamp Unknown]

He discusses the importance of restraint and fairness, highlighting that true community thrives on justice rather than personal vengeance. By adhering to these principles, individuals contribute to a harmonious and righteous society.

Practical Applications for Today

• Striving for Justice:
  Implementing fair and compassionate practices in personal and communal interactions aligns with the biblical principles discussed.

• Respecting Sacred Aspects of Life:
  Recognizing and honoring the sacredness of life and relationships fosters deeper spiritual connections and societal well-being.

• Community Support:
  Fr. Mike encourages listeners to support one another through prayer and shared commitment to the Bible reading journey, reinforcing communal bonds.

Conclusion and Encouragement

As Fr. Mike wraps up Day 40, he offers heartfelt prayers and encouragement, acknowledging the challenges and triumphs of the Bible reading journey. He reminds listeners of the transformative power of God's Word and the importance of continuing the journey with community support.

"Thank you for sharing with us your heart... You are the Lord, and we are yours. Help us to be yours more and more every day."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [Timestamp Unknown]

Fr. Mike concludes by urging listeners to remain steadfast, supporting one another through prayer and shared faith as they proceed into the next stages of their biblical exploration.

Join Fr. Mike Schmitz tomorrow for Day 41 as the journey through Exodus and Leviticus continues, uncovering deeper insights into God's laws and their relevance to our lives today.