The Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz
Episode Summary: Day 57 – Hear, O Israel (February 26, 2026)
Episode Overview
In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz leads listeners through Numbers 6, Deuteronomy 6, and Psalm 91, reflecting on the themes of dedication, blessings, and obedience. He explores the significance of the Nazirite vow, the foundational "Shema" commandment, and the assurance of God’s protection. Through commentary and prayer, Fr. Mike emphasizes the personal relevance of scripture, urging listeners to remember God’s actions and keep his words close in daily life.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. The Nazirite Vow (Numbers 6)
- Explanation of the Nazirite Vow:
- A temporary dedication to the Lord marked by abstinence from wine, avoidance of anything related to grapes, and not cutting hair.
- “Normally those were two exceptions. Normally they did not last for one's entire life. Normally it was kind of like dedicating time of your life to the Lord, right?...The Nazarite vow is kind of a way to dedicate time to the Lord.” (18:22)
- Biblical Examples:
- Samson: Lifelong Nazirite; failed to strictly observe the vow.
- John the Baptist: Another lifelong Nazirite, who, according to tradition, observed it faithfully.
- Significance of Hair:
- Hair growth during the vow symbolizes the passage of dedicated time, which is cut off and offered at the end.
- “That whole time I offer to you, that was yours, as is represented here by the hair that is cut off of my head. And I just think that's pretty...it's just really cool.” (20:10)
- Reflection:
- Drawing parallels to going on retreat or dedicating parts of one’s life to God.
2. The Priestly (Aaronic) Blessing (Numbers 6:24–26)
- Content of the Blessing:
- “The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.” (21:00)
- Role in Family Life:
- Fr. Mike encourages fathers to pray this over their children, noting the connection between priesthood and fatherhood.
3. The Shema—The Great Commandment (Deuteronomy 6)
- Text and Centrality:
- “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord, and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might.” (22:20)
- Deeper Meaning of ‘Hear’:
- The Hebrew ‘Shema’ means not just to ‘hear,’ but to listen and obey.
- “To hear in Hebrew, that Shema, doesn't just mean, hey, you guys listen up. It means, like, hear and obey. It means to receive and actually put this into practice.” (22:53)
- Reminder of Monotheism:
- The importance of exclusive devotion to God, especially when surrounded by polytheism in Egypt and Canaan.
- Rules Rooted in Relationship:
- Fr. Mike stresses that commandments flow from a covenant relationship, not abstract regulations.
- “Every single one of the rules we have in the church, every single one...they all come out of relationship. Without relationship, the rules...can also be hollow.” (24:16)
- Jewish Traditions:
- Mezuzah: Words of the Shema on a small scroll affixed to doorposts as a constant reminder.
- Phylacteries (Tefillin): Leather boxes containing scripture strapped to arm and forehead during prayer.
- Catholic Connection:
- The gesture of signing forehead, lips, and heart before the Gospel: “May the word of the Lord be on my mind, be on my lips, and be in my heart.” (26:30)
4. Assurance of God’s Protection (Psalm 91)
- Themes:
- Trust in God as a protector and refuge.
- Imagery of God’s angels guarding believers, and God’s promise of deliverance.
- Prayerful Reflection:
- Fr. Mike prays for listeners to remember God’s works and remain steadfast, even amid trials.
- “Lord God, we make this prayer in the mighty name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.” (17:53)
5. Encouragement for Listeners
- Perseverance in Daily Scripture:
- Fr. Mike affirms listeners on their journey, emphasizing that missing days is okay—what matters is returning and continuing.
- “You don't need to catch up to where we are right now. Just need to go at your own pace and just never, ever stop because this is the commandment. This is the commandment is to listen to the Lord… Hear, O Israel.” (29:45)
- Building Community in Prayer:
- “We are praying for each other. Please know that I am praying for you. You are doing so, so well.” (29:05)
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- On the Nazarite Vow’s Symbolism:
- “That whole time I offer to you, that was yours, as is represented here by the hair that is cut off of my head.” (20:10)
- On Parental Blessing:
- “I would just invite fathers who are listening to pray that prayer: ‘The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.’” (21:18)
- On Remembering God's Works:
- “Help us never forget what you have done for us. Help us never forget who you are. Help us never forget what you revealed about our own hearts. Help us to never forget you.” (17:15)
- On the Purpose of Rules:
- “Without the relationship, those rules can also be hollow. They can also be dead...the reason for the rule is the relationship.” (24:16)
- On Listener Progress:
- “Missing a weekend, maybe even missing a week, but you're getting back on the horse...just never, ever stop because this is the commandment.” (29:30)
Timestamps for Key Segments
- Reading of Numbers 6 (Nazirite Vow & Priestly Blessing): 02:00–07:45
- Reading of Deuteronomy 6 (The Shema): 08:10–12:05
- Reading and Prayer – Psalm 91: 12:10–14:55
- Prayer of Reflection: 15:00–17:53
- Commentary—Nazirite Vow Explained: 18:00–21:00
- Aaronic Blessing’s Significance: 21:00–22:00
- Discussion of Shema & Jewish Practice: 22:00–27:00
- Catholic Application (Sign of the Cross): 26:05–27:00
- Listener encouragement & closing: 28:10–30:00
Summary Takeaway
Day 57 centers on remembering God’s faithfulness and dedicating oneself to Him—whether through serious vows, continual blessings, or the daily act of recalling and embodying God’s love and protection. Fr. Mike underscores that rules and rituals are animated by living relationship, with obedience flowing from gratitude for what God has done.
“Hear, O Israel. The Lord our God is one, and you shall love him with everything you got.” (28:00)
Fr. Mike concludes with heartfelt encouragement: keep listening, keep remembering, and keep returning to God’s word, no matter where you are on the journey.