The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 86: The Real Presence of God
Release Date: March 27, 2025
Introduction and Overview
In Day 86 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into a detailed exposition of Joshua chapters 15 to 18, accompanied by a recitation of Psalm 130. This episode, produced by Ascension and inspired by Jeff Cavins' Great Adventure Bible Timeline, aims to provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the territorial allocations among the tribes of Israel as they prepare to settle in the Promised Land.
Reading of Joshua 15-18
Fr. Mike begins by setting the stage for the readings, emphasizing the historical and geographical significance of the passages. He utilizes the Revised Standard Version, Second Catholic Edition from the Great Adventure Bible to guide listeners through the intricate details of the land divisions.
1. Territory of Judah (Joshua 15)
Fr. Mike meticulously reads through Joshua 15, outlining the boundaries of the tribe of Judah. He describes the southernmost limits reaching Edom and the northern boundaries near Jebus (Jerusalem). The chapter highlights Caleb's conquest and the inheritance of his family, including the notable interaction between Caleb and his daughter Achsah.
"This is the inheritance of the tribe of the people of Judah according to their families."
[12:45]
2. Territory of Ephraim (Joshua 16)
Moving to Joshua 16, the focus shifts to the tribe of Ephraim, descendants of Joseph. Fr. Mike details their territory from the Jordan River through regions like Bethel and Gezer, noting the coexistence with remaining Canaanites who are subjected to forced labor.
"The Canaanites have dwelt in the midst of Ephraim to this day, but have become slaves to do forced labor."
[21:30]
3. Half Tribe of Manasseh (Joshua 17)
In Joshua 17, the narrative covers the allocation to the half-tribe of Manasseh, his descendants, and the intercession of Zelophehad's daughters for inheritance rights. This section underscores the expansion of land beyond the hill country and the continued presence of Canaanite inhabitants despite Israelite efforts.
"The sons of Israel grew strong, they put the Canaanites to forced labor and did not utterly drive them out."
[30:10]
4. Territories of Remaining Tribes (Joshua 18)
Joshua 18 culminates with the assembly at Shiloh, where seven remaining tribes receive their inheritances. Fr. Mike explains the division process, the role of the Levites, and the specific boundaries assigned to tribes like Benjamin. He emphasizes the meticulous nature of land allocation as a fulfillment of divine promise.
"This is the inheritance of the tribe of Benjamin according to its families."
[40:05]
Reflection on Psalm 130
Transitioning to Psalm 130, Fr. Mike recites this poignant Song of Ascents, highlighting themes of divine redemption and personal supplication. The Psalm serves as a contemplative bridge between the historical land divisions and the contemporary spiritual journey of believers.
"I wait for the Lord; my soul waits, and in his word I hope."
[50:20]
Insights and Lessons from Fr. Mike Schmitz
1. Historical Context and the Realness of Biblical Stories
Fr. Mike underscores the importance of recognizing the Bible as a historical document. He encourages listeners to engage with the geographical and cultural settings of the narratives to deepen their understanding.
"We recognize that Judeo-Christianity, Christianity itself is a historical religion. It's not just this idea that came out of nowhere."
[60:15]
2. God's Presence Today
Drawing parallels between ancient Israel and modern-day believers, Fr. Mike emphasizes that God's presence remains active and relevant. He urges listeners to experience God's transformative power in their daily lives, much like the Israelites did.
"God is with you just as he was with the people of Israel. Not somewhere in the future, not somewhere in the past, but right now and right here."
[65:40]
3. Encouragement and Community Prayer
Fr. Mike offers words of encouragement, acknowledging that scriptural passages dense with detail can sometimes feel overwhelming. He emphasizes the importance of community support and mutual prayer in maintaining faith and understanding.
"Let's keep praying for each other. Know that the Lord is with you, and the Lord does guide you as he's guiding all of us who want to be faithful to Him."
[75:50]
Conclusion
In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully intertwines the meticulous land allocations in the Book of Joshua with profound spiritual insights. By highlighting the tangible aspects of biblical stories, he bridges the ancient and modern, inviting listeners to perceive God's continuous presence. The reflection on Psalm 130 further enriches the episode, offering a moment of personal connection and hope.
Fr. Mike concludes with a heartfelt prayer, reinforcing the themes of faith, community, and the enduring relevance of Scripture. He encourages listeners to actively engage with their Bibles, utilizing resources like the Great Adventure Bible's maps to visualize and internalize the lessons discussed.
"We are actually called to be here and now. And as you're driving to work, as you're coming home from work... know that God is with you just as he was with the people of Israel."
[80:30]
Listeners are left with a renewed sense of purpose and an invitation to continue their journey through the Bible with both eyes and heart open to God's enduring presence.
Notable Quotes Summary:
-
"This is the inheritance of the tribe of the people of Judah according to their families."
[12:45] -
"The Canaanites have dwelt in the midst of Ephraim to this day, but have become slaves to do forced labor."
[21:30] -
"The sons of Israel grew strong, they put the Canaanites to forced labor and did not utterly drive them out."
[30:10] -
"This is the inheritance of the tribe of Benjamin according to its families."
[40:05] -
"I wait for the Lord; my soul waits, and in his word I hope."
[50:20] -
"We recognize that Judeo-Christianity, Christianity itself is a historical religion. It's not just this idea that came out of nowhere."
[60:15] -
"God is with you just as he was with the people of Israel. Not somewhere in the future, not somewhere in the past, but right now and right here."
[65:40] -
"Let's keep praying for each other. Know that the Lord is with you, and the Lord does guide you as he's guiding all of us who want to be faithful to Him."
[75:50] -
"We are actually called to be here and now. And as you're driving to work, as you're coming home from work... know that God is with you just as he was with the people of Israel."
[80:30]
This comprehensive summary captures the essence of Day 86's episode, providing both a detailed account of the biblical readings and the insightful reflections that tie them to the listener's personal faith journey.