The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Episode Summary: Day 87: God Keeps His Promises

Episode Overview In Day 87 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the concluding chapters of the Book of Joshua (chapters 19–21) and reflects upon Psalm 131. This episode, released on March 28, 2025, focuses on the distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, the establishment of cities of refuge, and the allocation of cities to the Levites. Fr. Mike intertwines historical analysis with spiritual insights, emphasizing God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises.

Scripture Readings

1. Joshua 19–21: Distribution of the Land and Establishment of Cities

   • Joshua 19: Details the territorial allocations to the tribes of Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, Dan, and others. Fr. Mike emphasizes the meticulous division of the land, highlighting the significance of each tribe's inheritance and the strategic placement of their cities.
   • Joshua 20: Introduces the concept of the Cities of Refuge, designated as safe havens for individuals who commit manslaughter. These cities—Kadesh, Shechem, Hebron, and others—ensure justice while providing protection.
   • Joshua 21: Outlines the allocation of 48 cities to the Levites, ensuring they have places to dwell and pasture lands for their cattle. This distribution underscores the Levites' role in spiritual leadership and service.

2. Psalm 131: A Song of Quiet Trust

   • Fr. Mike reads Psalm 131, a brief yet profound declaration of humility and trust in God. The psalmist expresses contentment and serenity, likening his soul to a child resting peacefully in his mother's arms.

Key Reflections and Insights

• God's Faithfulness Across Generations (03:45)

  "Not one of all the good promises which the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed. All came to pass."

  Fr. Mike highlights the culmination of God's promises to Israel, achieved through generations of faithfulness and obedience. This serves as a testament to God's unwavering commitment to His word.

• The Significance of Names and Places (15:30)

  Emphasizing the importance of remembering the names and territories assigned to each tribe, Fr. Mike connects these historical details to their spiritual significance, reminding listeners that these places symbolize God's provision and order.

• Humility and Trust Illustrated in Psalm 131 (25:10)

  Fr. Mike praises Psalm 131 for its concise yet powerful message of trust. He encourages listeners to embrace humility, resting in God's providence rather than striving against Him.

• Entering God's Rest Amidst Struggles (40:22)

  Reflecting on the challenges of life, Fr. Mike urges believers to find peace in God's presence, akin to a child’s trust in a mother's care. This entrusting of oneself to God’s plan fosters spiritual tranquility even in tumultuous times.

Prayer and Spiritual Application

Fr. Mike leads a heartfelt prayer, expressing gratitude for God's continuous blessings and the gift of every breath. He encourages listeners to approach each day with a spirit of praise and thanksgiving, reinforcing the theme of trust highlighted in Psalm 131.

Looking Forward

Fr. Mike previews the next episode, promising to explore Joshua's final words to Israel and their enduring legacy. He encourages listeners to remain steadfast in their journey through the Bible, trusting in God’s faithfulness as they continue to uncover the depths of Scripture.

Concluding Thoughts

Day 87 serves as a profound reminder of God's steadfastness and the importance of trusting in His promises. Through the meticulous distribution of the land and the establishment of cities of refuge, God demonstrates His sovereign management and care for His people. Psalm 131 encapsulates the essence of humble trust, urging believers to repose in God's plans with childlike faith.

Listeners are left with an invigorated sense of assurance in God's promises and a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of biblical narratives. As Fr. Mike aptly states:

"What God has promised, He will fulfill. It doesn't mean that He fulfills it immediately. It doesn't necessarily mean that He fulfills it without a fight, but it does mean that He is faithful to His promises."

This episode reinforces the transformative power of Scripture, encouraging believers to navigate life through the lens of God's Word and maintain unwavering trust in His divine plan.

Notable Quotes

• On God's Unfailing Promises (22:45):

  "Not one of all the good promises which the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed. All came to pass."

• On Humble Trust (25:10):

  "Like a child that is quieted is my soul. O Israel, hope in the Lord from this time forth and forevermore."

• On Faithfulness and Obedience (35:15):

  "What God has promised, He will fulfill. But it doesn't mean that He fulfills it immediately. It doesn't necessarily mean that He fulfills it without a fight, but it does mean that He is faithful to His promises."

Final Invitation

Fr. Mike closes the episode with an invitation to continue the journey through Joshua, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and faith. He encourages listeners to remain engaged, pray for one another, and remain open to God's guidance as they move forward in understanding the Bible's cohesive and transformative story.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of Day 87, providing listeners with a clear understanding of the episode's content, key messages, and spiritual applications. Whether revisiting the podcast or engaging with it for the first time, this summary offers valuable insights into God's enduring promises and the profound trust He inspires in His followers.