Podcast Episode Summary: Day 79: Psalms of Ascent (2025)
Title: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Release Date: March 20, 2025
Duration: 20-25 minutes

Introduction

In Day 79 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides listeners through pivotal passages from the Book of Numbers and the Book of Deuteronomy, culminating in a heartfelt prayer based on Psalm 120. This episode marks the transition from the desert wanderings period to the forthcoming era of the conquest and Judges, providing listeners with a deepened understanding of Israel's journey towards the Promised Land.

Scripture Readings

Numbers 34: Boundaries of the Land of Canaan

Fr. Mike begins by reading Numbers 34, outlining the specific boundaries that God set for the Israelites as they prepare to enter Canaan. This passage details:

• Southern Boundary: From the wilderness of Zin along Edom, extending to the salt sea and covering key landmarks such as Akrabim and Kadesh Barnea.
• Western Boundary: Defined by the Great Sea.
• Northern Boundary: From the Great Sea to Mount Hor, including regions like Hamath and Ziphron.
• Eastern Boundary: From Hazar Annan to the Jordan River and the Salt Sea.

Notable Quote:

"This is the land which you shall inherit by lot, which the Lord has commanded to give to the nine tribes and to the half tribe." [Numbers 34:12]

Deuteronomy 33: Moses' Final Blessing

Next, Fr. Mike reads Deuteronomy 33, where Moses bestows final blessings upon the twelve tribes of Israel. Highlights include:

• Blessings for Specific Tribes:
  • Reuben: A modest blessing, "Let Reuben live and not die, nor let his men be few."
  • Judah: A powerful blessing, "Hear, O Lord, the voice of Judah... contend for him and be a help against his adversaries."
  • Levi: Recognition of their spiritual role, "They shall teach Jacob your ordinances and Israel your law."
  • Joseph: Abundant blessings encompassing land and prosperity, "Blessed be his land with the choicest gifts of heaven above and of the deep that lies beneath."

Notable Quote:

"Such are the ten thousands of Ephraim, and such are the thousands of Manasseh." [Deuteronomy 33:29]

Psalm 120: Prayer for Deliverance

The episode includes a recitation of Psalm 120, a prayer seeking deliverance from deceit and conflict.

Notable Verses:

"In my distress I cry to the Lord, that he may answer me. Deliver me, O Lord, from lying lips..." [Psalm 120:1-2]
"Lord God, help us to love you back and help us to respond to your fighting for us by being the kind of people who are willing to not fight against you, but fight with you." [Psalm 120:Full Prayer]

Reflections and Insights

Boundaries of Canaan: A Historical Reality

Fr. Mike emphasizes the tangible nature of the Promised Land in ancient Israelite faith:

"The Promised Land is not some kind of abstract idea... it is a historical reality."

He underscores the importance of recognizing that Judaism and Christianity are historical religions, deeply rooted in specific times and places. This understanding helps believers see faith as an integral part of daily life, intertwined with both the spiritual and the material.

Tribal Blessings: Diversity of Divine Favor

Analyzing Moses' blessings in Deuteronomy 33, Fr. Mike notes the varying degrees of blessings among the tribes. For instance, while Judah and Joseph receive extensive blessings, Reuben's blessing is comparatively modest. This diversity highlights the unique roles and destinies of each tribe within the broader narrative of Israel.

Psalms of Ascent: Spiritual Pilgrimage

Fr. Mike delves into the significance of the Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134), traditionally recited by pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem for major feasts. Key insights include:

• Symbolism of Ascent: Represented both physically in the pilgrimage to Jerusalem and spiritually in the believer's journey towards God.

  "Journeys up to the temple of God... remind us that in worshiping God, he transforms us into a certain kind of person."

• Variety of Psalms: The Psalms of Ascent encompass a range of emotions and themes—from laments and thanksgiving to confidence and prophecy—mirroring the complex experiences of life.

• Modern Application: Fr. Mike relates the ancient practice to contemporary spiritual life, encouraging listeners to view their own spiritual journeys as pilgrimages marked by prayer and worship.

Notable Quote:

"There is something about worshiping God that just reminds us in good times and in bad... that we are called to worship God."

Guided Prayer

Fr. Mike leads a guided prayer, inspired by Psalm 120, focusing on deliverance from deceit and conflict. The prayer emphasizes gratitude for God's guidance and protection, invoking a mutual relationship where believers respond to God's initiative with love and cooperation.

Prayer Highlights:

• Acknowledgment of God's Initiative: "You initiate this journey... love us first."
• Commitment to Love and Cooperation: "Lord God, help us to love you back and help us to respond to your fighting for us by being the kind of people who are willing to not fight against you, but fight with you."
• Community Focus: Encourages mutual prayers, emphasizing collective support and intercession.

Notable Quote:

"God transforms us into a certain kind of person, a certain kind of people. And that is an incredible gift."

Conclusion and Encouragement

Fr. Mike wraps up the episode by reflecting on the day's readings and prayers, reinforcing the interconnectedness of spiritual worship and daily life. He encourages listeners to continue their journey through the Psalms of Ascent, highlighting the transformative power of worship in all circumstances—joyous or challenging.

Key Takeaways:

• Integration of Spiritual and Material: Faith is deeply embedded in both the spiritual and physical realms.
• Importance of Community Prayer: Emphasizes the strength found in praying for one another.
• Ongoing Journey: Encourages persistence in the Bible-in-a-year reading plan, with a focus on understanding and applying Scripture to everyday life.

Final Encouragement:

"I cannot wait to see you tomorrow. God bless."

Key Quotes with Timestamps

• [00:04]

  "The Bible in a Year podcast is brought to you by Ascension. Using the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, we'll read all the way from Genesis to Revelation..."
  Introduction to the podcast and its methodology.

• [Transcript Excerpts]

  "The Promised Land is not some kind of abstract idea... it is a historical reality."
  Reflection on the tangible nature of the Promised Land.

• [Throughout Reflection]

  "There is something about worshiping God that just reminds us in good times and in bad... that we are called to worship God."
  Emphasis on the role of worship in all life circumstances.

• [Prayer Section]

  "Lord God, help us to love you back and help us to respond to your fighting for us by being the kind of people who are willing to not fight against you, but fight with you."
  Core message of the guided prayer focusing on mutual love and cooperation with God.

Final Thoughts

Day 79 of the "Bible in a Year" podcast offers a profound exploration of Israel's journey towards the Promised Land, the significance of tribal blessings, and the enduring power of the Psalms of Ascent. Fr. Mike Schmitz eloquently connects ancient scriptures to modern faith practices, encouraging listeners to integrate worship into every facet of their lives. This episode not only deepens the understanding of biblical history but also inspires a more intimate and active relationship with God through prayer and reflection.

Listen to the full episode here.