Podcast Summary: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Episode: Day 88: Joshua's Last Words to Israel
Release Date: March 29, 2025
Duration: 20-25 minutes
Scripture Readings: Joshua 22-24, Psalm 132
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Publisher: Ascension

Introduction

In Day 88 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz leads listeners through the concluding chapters of the Book of Joshua, specifically chapters 22 through 24, along with Psalm 132. This episode marks the final day dedicated to Joshua, highlighting his last exhortations to the Israelites and the renewal of their covenant with God. Fr. Mike intertwines scripture reading with profound reflections, urging listeners to embrace faithfulness and deliberate choice in their spiritual journeys.

Overview of Joshua 22-24

Joshua Chapter 22: The Altar of Witness

Fr. Mike begins by narrating the return of the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to their land east of the Jordan. After faithfully following Moses' and Joshua's commands, these tribes build an altar by the Jordan River. The Israelites perceive this as rebellious, prompting Phinehas and ten chiefs to confront them about potential apostasy.

Key Points:

• Purpose of the Altar: Contrary to initial appearances, the altar was not for burnt offerings but served as a witness between the eastern tribes and western tribes, ensuring future generations recognized their continued service to the Lord.
• Resolution: Upon understanding the true intent, the Israelites are pacified, and no further conflict ensues. The altar stands as a testament to unity and faithfulness.

Joshua Chapter 23: Joshua’s Exhortation

As Joshua ages, he gathers the leaders of Israel to deliver a heartfelt sermon. He reminds them of God's mighty deeds and urges unwavering adherence to the Mosaic Law.

Key Points:

• Steadfastness: Emphasizes the importance of remaining loyal to God, avoiding assimilation with surrounding nations, and rejecting their gods.
• Conditional Promises: Joshua warns that abandoning God would lead to dire consequences, including the loss of the promised land and national downfall.

Joshua Chapter 24: Renewal of the Covenant

In the final chapter, Joshua convenes all tribes at Shechem to renew the covenant with the Lord. He recounts Israel’s history, from Abraham's call to the exodus from Egypt, highlighting God's faithfulness.

Key Points:

• Covenant Renewal: The people affirm their commitment to serve the Lord exclusively, rejecting idolatry.
• Witness Stone: Joshua sets up a stone under the oak at Shechem as a physical reminder of their pledge to God.
• Joshua’s Death: The episode concludes with the passing of Joshua and Eleazar, marking the end of an era.

Psalm 132: The Eternal Dwelling of God in Zion

Fr. Mike reads Psalm 132, a song of ascents, which complements the themes of covenant and God's enduring promise to David and Zion.

Reflections and Insights

Fr. Mike delves into the profound lessons derived from Joshua’s final acts and speeches:

1. Faithfulness and Obedience: Emphasizes that true faithfulness to God requires steadfast adherence to His commandments and a collective commitment as a community.

2. Intentionality in Worship: The construction of the altar by the eastern tribes serves as a powerful metaphor for intentional worship and witness. It underscores the importance of visible signs of faith that transcend generations.

3. Choice and Commitment: Fr. Mike highlights Joshua’s challenge to the Israelites—a call that remains relevant today. He reflects on the imperative of choosing whom to serve, resonating with Joshua’s words:

   "If you be unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve..." (Joshua 24:15) (Timestamp: ~20:30)

4. Legacy of Leadership: Joshua’s exhortations remind listeners of the impact of leadership in shaping communal and individual faith. Fr. Mike encourages adopting Joshua’s proactive stance in personal spiritual commitments.

5. Application to Modern Life: Drawing parallels between ancient covenant renewals and contemporary spiritual choices, Fr. Mike urges listeners to actively choose to serve God amidst modern-day distractions and idols such as money, fame, and comfort.

Notable Quotes

• Joshua on Choice:

  "If you be unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served beyond the river or the gods of the Amorites..."
  (Joshua 24:15)
  Timestamp: 18:45

• Personal Commitment:

  "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
  (Joshua 24:15)
  Timestamp: 21:10

• Fr. Mike on Decision:

  "Choose today so that you can stop pretending, right?"
  Timestamp: 24:30

• Reflection on Legacy:

  "You cannot serve the Lord, for he is a holy God. He is a jealous God."
  (Joshua 24:19)
  Timestamp: 23:50

Conclusion

Day 88 serves as a poignant culmination of the Israelites' journey under Joshua’s leadership, encapsulating themes of loyalty, covenant, and deliberate choice. Fr. Mike Schmitz adeptly bridges the ancient narrative with contemporary spiritual challenges, encouraging listeners to embody Joshua’s legacy of faithfulness. By emphasizing the power of choice and the necessity of a committed heart, this episode imparts enduring lessons on living a life anchored in God’s will.

Closing Prayer: Fr. Mike concludes with a heartfelt prayer, thanking God for the journey through Joshua’s story and seeking divine assistance in trusting and serving Him faithfully. He underscores the transformative power of living out the covenant in daily life, echoing the call to "serve the Lord" with sincerity and devotion.

Final Thoughts

As Fr. Mike transitions into the next segment of the reading plan, beginning with the Books of Judges and Ruth, he leaves listeners with an invitation to continue their spiritual journey. He emphasizes community support through prayer and encourages financial contributions to sustain the podcast’s mission.

Upcoming:

• Day 89: Introduction to the Book of Judges and the Book of Ruth
• Focus: Exploring the narratives of faithfulness and redemption in Israel’s history

Engage Further:

• Subscribe: Ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing to The Bible in a Year podcast.
• Support: Consider supporting the podcast through donations at ascensionpress.com/Bible-in-a-year to help sustain its production and reach.

Fr. Mike Schmitz closes with a blessing, expressing gratitude for the shared journey and anticipation for the continued exploration of God’s Word.

Note: This summary captures the essence and key elements of Day 88’s episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven’t listened, while highlighting crucial discussions and reflections presented by Fr. Mike Schmitz.