Episode Summary: Day 47 - The Golden Calf

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
• Host: Ascension
• Episode: Day 47: The Golden Calf
• Release Date: February 16, 2025
• Duration: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Introduction

In Day 47 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the intriguing and cautionary tale of the Golden Calf as narrated in Exodus 32. Accompanied by the foundational laws outlined in Leviticus 23 and the heartfelt pleas of Psalm 79, this episode offers a comprehensive exploration of idolatry, faith, and the human inclination towards control amidst uncertainty.

Scripture Readings

1. Exodus 32: The Golden Calf

   • Summary: As Moses ascends Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments, the Israelites grow restless and uncertain about his prolonged absence. They pressure Aaron to create a tangible representation of God, resulting in the formation of the Golden Calf. This act of idolatry not only signifies a lapse in faith but also marks a critical turning point in Israelite history.

2. Leviticus 23: The Sabbath and Feasts

   • Summary: This chapter outlines the various appointed feasts and holy convocations that the Israelites are to observe. From the Sabbath to Passover, Feast of Weeks, Day of Atonement, and Feast of Booths, these observances are designed to foster a continual remembrance of God's providence and the covenant relationship with His people.

3. Psalm 79: A Plea for Mercy for Jerusalem

   • Summary: Attributed to Asaph, this psalm is a mournful cry for God's mercy in the wake of Jerusalem's devastation. It reflects the anguish of a community grappling with loss, injustice, and the dire need for divine intervention and forgiveness.

Reflections by Fr. Mike Schmitz

Fr. Mike Schmitz provides a profound reflection on the narrative of the Golden Calf, drawing parallels to contemporary challenges of faith and control.

• Human Desire for Control Amid Uncertainty (02:15):

  “Here is God, who allows us to walk and invites us to walk in the midst of uncertainty... But in the midst of that uncertainty, what do we do? We say, well, what can I take? How can I take control of this situation.”

  Fr. Mike emphasizes that the Israelites' creation of the Golden Calf stems not from a desire to rebel against God, but from a deep-seated need to exert control during Moses' absence. This mirrors modern-day tendencies to seek tangible anchors in times of instability.

• Subtlety of Idolatry (10:45):

  “Instead of, they're not completely rejecting the God who delivered them out of slavery in Egypt... they're ascribing to this image, the golden calf, the very role of God.”

  The reflection highlights how idolatry often manifests not through outright rejection of faith but through the subtle elevation of created objects or concepts to divine status. This nuanced form of idolatry can be particularly insidious, as it maintains a veneer of faith while undermining its essence.

• Transition to Levitical Priesthood (18:30):

  “Aaron's excuses... But is the birth of the Levitical priesthood. Up until this point... now given to the Levitical priesthood.”

  Fr. Mike discusses the significant shift from family-based priesthood to a dedicated Levitical priesthood. This transition plays a pivotal role in shaping Israelite worship and governance, emphasizing the importance of a structured spiritual leadership.

Notable Insights

• Idol-Making Nature of the Human Heart:

  “The human heart is an idol making factory... Because if we have the broken human heart that we all have, we can trade in uncertainty for control.”

  This poignant observation underscores the inherent human propensity to create and rely on idols—anything that offers a semblance of control—to navigate life's uncertainties.

• God's Call to Trust and Faith:

  “God is trying to do and break through to the people... God training his people to trust him, that they're not in control.”

  Fr. Mike reiterates the biblical theme of surrendering control and embracing faith, trusting in God's providence even when the path forward is unclear.

Guided Prayer

The episode includes a heartfelt prayer inspired by Psalm 79, seeking divine mercy, forgiveness, and the strength to resist the allure of modern-day idols. Fr. Mike leads listeners in a communal plea for spiritual steadfastness and a deeper commitment to living out one's faith authentically.

Conclusion

Fr. Mike Schmitz beautifully ties together the lessons from Exodus, Leviticus, and Psalms to provide a multifaceted understanding of faith, leadership, and community. He challenges listeners to reflect on their own lives, recognizing the subtle ways they may lean towards control and idolatry, and encourages a recommitment to trusting in God's unwavering presence.

The episode serves as a powerful reminder of the continuous journey towards spiritual maturity and the enduring relevance of biblical teachings in navigating contemporary life's complexities.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Idolatry: Idolatry isn't just about worshiping false gods but also about elevating created things to divine status to gain control.

• Faith Amid Uncertainty: Trusting in God's plan requires relinquishing the need for control, especially during times of doubt or waiting.

• Role of Leadership: The establishment of the Levitical priesthood underscores the importance of dedicated spiritual leadership in maintaining faith communities.

• Persistent Reflection: Repeated biblical narratives and laws serve to reinforce core spiritual principles, ensuring they're not forgotten.

Notable Quotes:

• “We have the confidence to follow after the Lord God as he truly has revealed himself.” (19:45)

• “He calls us to walk in faith. Why not? Just so that, like, I don't want you to know what's next, what's happening next.” (13:25)

Encouragement:

Fr. Mike concludes with a heartfelt invitation to continue the journey of faith through scripture, prayer, and community support, emphasizing the transformative power of living life through the lens of God's Word.

For Further Listening: Subscribe to The Bible in a Year podcast on your preferred platform to continue exploring the depths of Scripture with Fr. Mike Schmitz.