Podcast Title: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Episode: Day 76: War Against Midian
Release Date: March 17, 2025
Introduction to the Episode
In Day 76 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into a compelling and challenging passage from the Bible, specifically Numbers 31 and Deuteronomy 30, and offers a heartfelt prayer from Psalm 116. This episode, lasting approximately 16 minutes, navigates the intricate narratives of warfare, obedience, and divine mercy, providing listeners with profound insights into the complexities of faith and morality.
Reading and Analysis of Numbers 31
Fr. Mike begins by reading Numbers 31, which recounts the Israelites' war against the Midianites. Moses commands the assembly to "avenge the sons of Israel on the Midianites" (00:31). He elaborates on the scale of the conflict, highlighting that Moses selects "a thousand from each tribe, 12,000 armed for war" (01:06). This strategic mobilization underscores the seriousness of the Israelites' mission to eliminate the influence of idolatry that had plagued them.
The narrative continues with the Israelites' victory over Midian, including the killing of five Midianite kings and Balaam, the prophet who had led Israel astray (02:21). Fr. Mike discusses the grim aftermath, where the Israelites take captives and plunder both people and livestock (02:30). Moses' subsequent anger over sparing the women, who had been instrumental in leading Israel into sin, results in further divine instructions to purify the camp and deal with the captives accordingly (03:02).
Reflection on Warfare and Idolatry
Addressing the disturbing aspects of this passage, Fr. Mike acknowledges the moral discomfort it may cause listeners. He emphasizes that such extreme measures were not God's original desire but were necessitated by the Israelites' rampant idolatry and moral decay (15:11). He explains, "The plan of God is not people's destruction. It's not their death. It's not to go to war and kill everybody. But the plan of God is that the people of Israel would be faithful" (15:14).
Fr. Mike draws a parallel between the Israelites' struggles and modern-day challenges, encouraging listeners to recognize and eliminate the influences that divert their hearts from God. He states, "Our hearts are just like the hearts of the people of Israel" (17:56), urging personal introspection and the removal of detrimental elements in one's life to maintain a pure and devoted relationship with God.
Transition to Deuteronomy 30
Shifting focus to Deuteronomy 30, Fr. Mike highlights Moses' powerful message of choice between life and death, blessing and curse (07:36). He reads Moses' exhortation: "Choose life that you and your descendants may live, loving the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul" (10:23). This passage serves as a beacon of hope and redemption, emphasizing God's unwavering commitment to those who return to Him with sincere hearts.
Psalm 116 and its Significance
In his prayer segment, Fr. Mike reads Psalm 116, a profound expression of thanksgiving and deliverance (10:44). He connects this Psalm to the Eucharistic celebration, noting, "The Greek word for thanksgiving is the word Eucharistia... we offer up the Eucharist at every Mass and call on the name of the Lord" (19:33). This linkage underscores the continuity between the Israelites' experiences and the Christian practice of Eucharistic worship, highlighting the enduring nature of God's salvific plan.
Practical Application and Personal Reflection
Fr. Mike encourages listeners to apply the lessons from these scriptures to their daily lives. He advises, "Recognize what are those things in my life that I tolerate now... They will sap my love for Christ" (18:10). By identifying and eliminating distractions or sinful influences, individuals can preserve their devotion and avoid spiritual corruption akin to that experienced by the Israelites.
He also reassures listeners that God's plan is rooted in love and mercy, even when confronted with harsh biblical commands. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader narrative of salvation history, which ultimately reflects God's desire for humanity's flourishing rather than destruction (16:35).
Conclusion and Encouragement
Wrapping up the episode, Fr. Mike offers words of encouragement, urging believers to "trust in the Lord with all of our hearts" and to persevere through challenging times (20:37). He reminds listeners that ongoing engagement with Scripture and prayer will lead to a deeper understanding of God's heart and will.
In his final prayer, Fr. Mike beseeches God for the strength to remain faithful and to return to Him whenever they fall short, reinforcing the theme of divine mercy and the possibility of redemption through unwavering faith (13:02).
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Moses' Command: "A thousand from each tribe... 12,000 armed for war." (01:06)
- On Warfare Necessity: "The plan of God is not people's destruction... But it was commanded out of concern for the people of Israel's weakness." (15:14)
- Personal Reflection: "Our hearts are just like the hearts of the people of Israel." (17:56)
- Exhortation to Choose Life: "Choose life that you and your descendants may live." (10:23)
- Eucharistic Connection: "We offer up the Eucharist at every Mass and call on the name of the Lord." (19:33)
- Encouragement to Persevere: "Trust in the Lord with all of our hearts." (20:37)
Final Thoughts
Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully navigates through complex and often troubling biblical narratives, providing listeners with insightful reflections and practical applications. By juxtaposing the historical accounts of the Israelites with contemporary spiritual challenges, he offers a relatable and thought-provoking exploration of faith, obedience, and divine mercy. This episode serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of aligning one's life with God's will, fostering a deeper understanding of Scripture, and embracing the transformative power of God's word in daily living.