Podcast Summary: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 46: Set Apart for God

Episode Information

• Title: Day 46: Set Apart for God
• Release Date: February 15, 2025
• Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
• Publisher: Ascension
• Duration: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Introduction

In Day 46 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the themes of holiness and consecration as outlined in the books of Exodus and Leviticus. This episode, titled "Set Apart for God," continues the podcast's mission to guide listeners through the entire Bible over 365 episodes, providing insightful commentary, reflections, and prayers to deepen understanding and spiritual growth.

Scripture Readings

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

• Exodus 30 & 31
• Leviticus 22
• Psalm 115

He emphasizes the importance of reading along with the podcast, whether through a printed reading plan or digitally via Ascension Press.

Key Passages Read:

• Exodus 30:1-38 – Instructions for the altar of incense, the bronze laver, anointing oil, and incense.
• Exodus 31:1-18 – The appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab, skilled artisans filled with the Spirit of God to craft sacred items.
• Leviticus 22:1-33 – Regulations concerning the handling of holy offerings and the importance of maintaining purity.
• Psalm 115 – A declaration of God's greatness and the futility of idols, emphasizing trust in the Lord.

Reflections on Priesthood and Holiness

Fr. Mike transitions into a profound reflection on the nature of priesthood and holiness, building upon the scriptural foundations laid in the readings.

Key Insights:

1. Holiness as Separation and Consecration:

   • Fr. Mike explains that the book of Leviticus, often perceived as a collection of rules, is fundamentally about holiness—being set apart for God.
   • He draws parallels to Catholic practices of blessing items, highlighting that to bless is to set something apart for a dedicated, sacred purpose.

2. The Priesthood’s Unique Role:

   • Drawing from Exodus 31:1-11, Fr. Mike discusses the selection of Bezalel and Oholiab, emphasizing that their craftsmanship was not merely a skill but a divine calling.
   • He quotes St. Pius X to underscore the sanctity required of priests:

     “This sanctity alone makes us what our divine vocation demands, namely men crucified to the world and to whom the world is crucified...” (Timestamp: 19:45)

3. Kingdom Priesthood for All Believers:

   • Fr. Mike extends the concept of priesthood beyond ordained ministers, referring to all baptized individuals as “kingdom priests.”
   • He encourages listeners to view their everyday work—whether mundane or secular—as acts of worship when performed with the Spirit of God.

Notable Quote:

"When you sacrifice a sacrifice of thanksgiving to the Lord, you shall sacrifice it so that you may be accepted."
(Exodus 22:21-23)
– Fr. Mike Schmitz (Timestamp: 15:30)

Practical Applications

Fr. Mike offers practical advice on living a consecrated life:

1. Transforming Ordinary Work into Sacred Service:

   • By being filled with the Spirit, believers can elevate everyday tasks to acts of worship. Whether in teaching, healthcare, or any profession, the intention and dedication can sanctify work.

2. Living as Set-Apart Individuals:

   • Embracing holiness means recognizing that one’s actions and possessions are dedicated to God’s service. This perspective fosters a life of purpose and alignment with divine will.

3. The Importance of Community and Support:

   • Fr. Mike urges listeners to support one another in their spiritual journeys, highlighting the collective strength found in community prayer and mutual encouragement.

Prayer Reflection: The episode concludes with a guided prayer, inviting listeners to seek God’s transformative power in their lives, asking for the ability to hear His word and let it reshape their hearts and perspectives.

Conclusion and Encouragement

Fr. Mike wraps up the episode by acknowledging the listeners' perseverance in continuing the Bible reading journey. He reinforces the transformative impact of understanding the Scriptures in depth and encourages maintaining the momentum as they approach the completion of Exodus and Leviticus.

Key Takeaways:

• Holiness involves being set apart for God, reflected in both spiritual practices and daily actions.
• The priesthood, whether ordained or part of the faithful, calls for a life consecrated to divine service.
• Ordinary work, when offered to God, becomes a means of worship and sanctification.

Final Encouragement:

“Realize this. Oh, my goodness, what a gift. What a gift. This day, even the most ordinary day, can be extraordinary.”
(Timestamp: 23:50)

Fr. Mike expresses gratitude for the listeners' commitment and looks forward to continuing the journey together, fostering a deeper connection with God’s word and purpose.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Introduction to the Reading Plan:

   “Using the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, we'll read all the way from Genesis to Revelation, discovering how the story of salvation unfolds and how we fit into that story.”
   (00:04)

2. Holiness and Consecration:

   “The whole idea behind the book of Leviticus is not just here are some rules. Yes, obviously the book of Leviticus is about rules, but truly what it is really about is holiness.”
   (19:30)

3. Sanctity of Work:

   “Whatever your work is, that when you do it with the spirit of God, even ordinary work becomes extraordinary, even secular work becomes sacred.”
   (22:15)

4. Final Encouragement:

   “This day, even the most ordinary day, can be extraordinary. Even the most secular work can be sacred because you have the spirit of God.”
   (23:50)

Closing Thoughts

Day 46 of The Bible in a Year podcast offers a profound exploration of holiness, priesthood, and the sanctification of daily life. Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully intertwines scripture readings with insightful reflections, encouraging listeners to perceive their lives and work through the sacred lens of Scripture. As participants continue their journey through the Bible, this episode serves as a powerful reminder of the divine calling to be set apart and live a life that honors God in all aspects.