Podcast Summary: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 95: The Sin of Benjamin

Episode Overview Title: Day 95: The Sin of Benjamin
Release Date: April 5, 2025
Duration: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Scripture Readings: Judges 19-21, Psalm 148
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz

In Day 95 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the tumultuous and tragic narrative of Judges 19-21, commonly referred to as "The Sin of Benjamin." This episode not only recounts the harrowing events from the Book of Judges but also provides profound reflections on their relevance to contemporary life and spiritual understanding.

1. Introduction and Context Setting

Fr. Mike begins the episode by acknowledging the significant impact the "Bible in a Year" podcast has had on its listeners, emphasizing the community's role in disseminating God's Word. He shares updates about the podcast's expansion to platforms like YouTube and upcoming translations into various languages, underscoring the mission to make the Scriptures accessible to a broader audience.

Notable Quote:

"The end of this year is not going to be the end of Bible in a Year... we want to keep them free of cost to all those people who participate because we want to get the Word of God out there." (00:00)

2. Reading and Summary of Judges 19-21

Fr. Mike proceeds to read from the Revised Standard Version, second Catholic edition, covering Judges chapters 19 to 21. He summarizes the disturbing events involving a Levite, his concubine, and the subsequent atrocities committed by the tribe of Benjamin.

Key Events Covered:

• Judges 19: The Levite and his concubine's journey, leading to the concubine's brutal abuse and death in Gibeah.
• Judges 20: The united tribes of Israel confront Benjamin, resulting in a devastating battle where 25,100 Benjaminites are killed.
• Judges 21: The near-extermination of the tribe of Benjamin and the measures taken to preserve its existence, including the troubling practice of taking wives from Jabesh Gilead and during the festival at Shiloh.

Notable Readings:

"In those days there was no king in Israel. Every man did what was right in his own eyes." (Judges 21:25) (20:23)

3. Reflection and Insights

Fr. Mike offers a deep theological and moral reflection on the events narrated in Judges 19-21. He highlights the catastrophic consequences of deviating from God's commandments, particularly concerning family and sexual ethics. The narrative serves as a grim illustration of societal decay when "everyone does what is right in their own eyes," a phenomenon Fr. Mike correlates with modern-day relativism.

Key Insights:

• The Perils of Relativism: Fr. Mike draws parallels between the moral collapse in ancient Israel and contemporary society's embrace of relativism, where individual truths overshadow universal divine truths.
• Consequences of Moral Deviations: The tragic events underscore the importance of adhering to God's laws, especially in personal and familial relationships.
• Hope for Redemption: Despite the darkness, Fr. Mike emphasizes the theme of redemption inherent in the Bible, noting that returning to God leads to restoration and healing.

Notable Quotes:

"So whenever we see these breaks in God's law... what happens is catastrophe." (04:15)
"The Book of Judges sums up where we are right now completely... where we have given ourselves over to relativism." (19:45)

4. Prayer and Worship

Throughout the episode, Fr. Mike integrates prayers and praises, notably reciting Psalm 148. This Psalm serves as a counterbalance to the preceding narrative, extolling God's universal glory amidst the depicted horrors.

Key Elements:

• Psalm 148 Reading: Emphasizes the majesty and sovereignty of God over all creation.
• Personal Prayer: Fr. Mike prays for strength to uphold God's laws and for guidance to avoid the pitfalls of moral decay.

Notable Quote:

"Father, it is right that we give you praise and it is right that we give you glory in the midst of horror... Help us to keep moving forward." (23:30)

5. Looking Ahead

Fr. Mike concludes the episode by outlining the upcoming segments in the Bible reading plan. He announces a transition to the Book of Samuel, signaling a shift from the era of the judges to the establishment of kingship in Israel. Additionally, he mentions a brief interlude with the Gospel of John, indicating a diverse exploration of biblical texts in future episodes.

Notable Quote:

"That's one of the reasons why this Book of Judges is so critical to us... but also the redemption part is then we call out to the Lord." (25:10)
"In the next three days in the first Book of Samuel... And then we're taking a seven day journey through the book of the Gospel of John, which is coming up soon." (34:50)

6. Concluding Thoughts

Fr. Mike emphasizes the enduring relevance of biblical teachings, urging listeners to heed the lessons from Judges 19-21. He highlights the importance of recognizing and returning to God's guidance to navigate personal and societal challenges effectively.

Overall Reflections

Day 95 of "The Bible in a Year" presents a sobering examination of one of the Bible's darkest chapters. Through meticulous reading and heartfelt reflection, Fr. Mike Schmitz not only recounts historical events but also draws critical connections to present-day moral and spiritual dilemmas. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of straying from divine commandments and the enduring need for redemption and adherence to God's Word.

Listeners are encouraged to engage deeply with the Scriptures, reflect on their personal lives in light of biblical teachings, and embrace the transformative power of God's Word to effect positive change.

Supporting Resources

• Reading Plan: Available for download at Ascension Press Bible in a Year
• Support the Podcast: Contributions can be made at ascensionpress.com/support

Final Note:
Fr. Mike closes with heartfelt prayers and blessings, fostering a sense of community and shared spiritual journey among listeners.

Next Episode Preview

Join Fr. Mike tomorrow as he continues through the Book of Samuel, exploring the early chapters that transition Israel from the time of the judges to the onset of monarchy. Prepare for an insightful journey into leadership, obedience, and God's unfolding plan for His people.