The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Episode: Day 59: Obligations to God (2025)
Release Date: February 28, 2025

Overview

In Day 59 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into Numbers chapters 8 and 9, Deuteronomy chapter 8, and Psalm 93. This episode, titled "Obligations to God," explores the themes of consecration, worship, obedience, and remembrance of God's faithfulness. Fr. Mike provides insightful commentary, connecting ancient scriptures to contemporary Christian life, urging listeners to understand and embrace their obligations to God wholeheartedly.

Scripture Readings

1. Numbers Chapter 8

Fr. Mike begins by reading Numbers 8, which details the consecration of the Levites and the establishment of the golden lampstand. Key points include:

• Consecration of the Levites: God instructs Moses to cleanse the Levites, making them devoted to service in the tent of meeting (Numbers 8:5-22).

  Fr. Mike (00:04): "So you made the lampstand, the Levites' consecration and service."

• The Golden Lampstand: Aaron sets up the seven lamps to illuminate the lampstand, symbolizing God's eternal light (Numbers 8:1-4).

  Fr. Mike (00:59): "This is all preparing the people of Israel for this life in the wilderness and life after the wilderness."

2. Numbers Chapter 9

Next, Numbers 9 discusses the observance of the Passover and the guiding presence of the cloud and fire. Highlights include:

• Passover Observance: The perpetual institution of Passover is emphasized, stressing its importance regardless of circumstances like ritual impurity or travel (Numbers 9:1-14).

  Fr. Mike (20:15): "If you exempt yourself from this kind of worship, you are cutting yourself off from the people of God."

• Cloud and Fire: The cloud by day and fire by night signify God's guidance, teaching the Israelites to trust and follow His lead (Numbers 9:15-23).

  Fr. Mike (35:47): "Trust in the Lord. If He doesn't call me to move, I'm going to stay put."

3. Deuteronomy Chapter 8

Deuteronomy 8 serves as Moses' final exhortation to the Israelites, reminding them of God's provision and urging them to remain faithful (Deuteronomy 8:1-20).

• Remembrance and Humility: Moses urges the people to remember God's guidance during their 40 years in the wilderness, emphasizing humility and dependence on God (Deuteronomy 8:2-3).

  Fr. Mike (52:30): "When you have so much, you will be tempted to say, this is what I've done. This is the work of my hands."

• Warnings Against Forgetting God: As the Israelites approach the Promised Land, Moses warns against the temptation to attribute their success to their own might, forgetting God's role (Deuteronomy 8:11-18).

  Fr. Mike (55:10): "Know that it was God's faithfulness."

4. Psalm 93

Finally, Psalm 93 celebrates the majesty and eternal reign of God.

• God's Sovereignty: The psalmist proclaims God's unshakable kingdom and His supreme power over creation (Psalm 93:1-5).

  Fr. Mike (60:05): "Your decrees are very sure. Holiness befits your house, O Lord, forevermore."

Reflections and Insights

Consecration and Service

Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of the Levites' consecration in Numbers 8, highlighting their dedicated service to God. This serves as a model for Christians to devote their lives to God's service.

Fr. Mike (00:59): "This is all preparing the people of Israel for this life in the wilderness and life after the wilderness."

Obligations in Worship

In Numbers 9, the discussion on the Passover underscores the non-negotiable nature of certain obligations to God. Fr. Mike draws parallels to the Christian Eucharist, emphasizing that regular participation in Mass is essential for fellowship with God.

Fr. Mike (20:15): "If you exempt yourself from this kind of worship, you are cutting yourself off from the people of God."

Trust and Obedience

The imagery of the cloud and fire in Numbers 9 symbolizes divine guidance, teaching believers to trust and obey God's direction without hesitation.

Fr. Mike (35:47): "Trust in the Lord. If He doesn't call me to move, I'm going to stay put."

Remembrance and Humility

Deuteronomy 8 serves as a powerful reminder to remain humble and grateful, recognizing that all blessings come from God. Fr. Mike warns against the common human temptation to forget God during times of abundance.

Fr. Mike (55:10): "Know that it was God's faithfulness."

Majesty of God

Psalm 93 reinforces God's eternal sovereignty and power, encouraging believers to worship Him with reverence and awe.

Fr. Mike (60:05): "Your decrees are very sure. Holiness befits your house, O Lord, forevermore."

Conclusions and Applications

Fr. Mike concludes the episode by connecting the lessons from the scriptures to everyday Christian life:

1. Commitment to Worship: Just as the Israelites were obligated to observe Passover, Christians are called to regularly participate in the Eucharist and other sacraments as expressions of their commitment to God.

2. Trust in Divine Guidance: The cloud and fire teach believers to rely on God's guidance, trusting that He will lead them in the right direction, even when the path is unclear.

3. Remembering God's Faithfulness: In times of both scarcity and abundance, Christians are reminded to acknowledge God's hand in their lives, avoiding pride and self-reliance.

4. Holiness and Obedience: Emulating the consecration of the Levites, believers are encouraged to live lives set apart for God's service, embodying holiness and obedience in all actions.

Prayer

Fr. Mike leads a heartfelt prayer, asking God for the strength to remember His guidance and to trust in His word. He prays for the ability to follow God's lead in all circumstances, whether in times of need or in periods of plenty.

Fr. Mike (59:40): "Help us always to see where you are in our lives and always to hear your voice in our lives."

He concludes by invoking the Holy Trinity, affirming the unity and divinity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Fr. Mike (1:01:10): "In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

Final Thoughts

Fr. Mike reflects on the journey so far, celebrating reaching Day 59 and anticipating the continued spiritual growth of listeners. He encourages ongoing prayer, study of God's word, and mutual support within the community.

Fr. Mike (1:02:30): "We have been praying for each other. I will not stop praying for you."

He expresses excitement for the upcoming episodes, reaffirming his commitment to guide listeners through the Bible with faith and devotion.

Key Takeaways:

• Obligations to God: Commitment to worship and obedience are non-negotiable aspects of faith.
• Divine Guidance: Trusting in God's direction is crucial for spiritual growth.
• Remembrance: Regularly recalling God's faithfulness fosters humility and gratitude.
• Holiness: Living a consecrated life reflects true devotion to God.

This episode serves as a profound reminder of the responsibilities believers hold and the importance of maintaining a steadfast relationship with God through all seasons of life.