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As we begin reading the Book of Zephaniah, Fr. Mike draws our attention to the first five accusations Zephaniah declares against the people of Judah: idolatry, lack of prayer, poor leadership, superstitions, and lack of belief in God's judgment. Today we read Isaiah 28-29, Zephaniah 1-2, and Proverbs 11:9-12. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike points out God's remarkable promise of deliverance to Israel even in the midst of their captivity and apparent hopelessness. Even when we don't see God working in our lives, we rejoice in God because we trust and hope in his promise of salvation. Today's readings are Isaiah 25-27, Habakkuk 3, and Proverbs 11:5-8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As we continue journeying through the prophets, Fr. Mike helps us understand the oracle concerning Tyre and points out that God's judgment will always be completed. Today, we also begin reading the Book of Habakkuk and learn about the five powerful woes we can all relate to. Today's readings are Isaiah 23-24, Habakkuk 1-2, and Proverbs 11:1-4. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike focuses on Isaiah 22 today and explains how the role of the pope in the Catholic Church goes all the way back to this important chapter in Isaiah. We learn that Jesus himself instituted the papacy by making Peter his 'al-habbayit, the one over the household who holds the keys to the kingdom when the king is away. Today's readings are Isaiah 21-22, Nahum 3, and Proverbs 10:29-32. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike celebrates Day 200 of our journey by highlighting the relationship between Egypt, Assyria, and Israel according to the Lord's plan. We have a God who died for his enemies to make them his friends, and we see that foreshadowed in Isaiah, concerning the horrific acts of Assyria and Egypt. Today's readings are Isaiah 18-20, Nahum 1-2, and Proverbs 10:25-28. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike explains why Joel would say there are certain times for war, even within God's plan. In a broken world, we are sometimes called to fight the brokenness around us, but we must believe that God is allowing this not because he likes war, but because something better will come in its place. Today's readings are Isaiah 16-17, Joel 3, and Proverbs 10:21-24. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike introduces us to the prophet Joel and the unique timing of his ministry in the midst of tragedy. He also touches on the prophecy concerning Lucifer and St. Michael the Archangel, and how the two are directly contrasted to show the glory of God. Today's readings are Isaiah 14-15, Joel 1-2, and Proverbs 10:17-20. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike reveals yet another prophetic message that points towards the coming of Christ, explaining why the Book of Isaiah is often called the Book of Woe and the Book of Consolation. He also touches on the powerful prayer we hear as we end our journey with Tobit. Today's readings are Isaiah 11-13, Tobit 13-14, and Proverbs 10:13-16. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike talks about the destruction of Israel and explains how Jesus becoming man fulfills this prophecy we hear in Isaiah. He also points out the importance of God's anger with the Assyrians destroying Israel, even though he will bring the greatest blessings out of the worst circumstances. Today's readings are Isaiah 9-10, Tobit 10-12, and Proverbs 10:9-12. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today we are reviving our series where we take your tough questions. We are starting with Israel and all the questions surrounding the modern Jewish people. Welcome to the 167!
Life has a way of surprising us sometimes. Sometimes it's great news and sometimes it can be devastating. But when our world is suddenly flipped upside down, call on God and watch Him flip it right side up.
Fr. Mike highlights the purity of Tobias and Sarah's love and the power of their prayer as a married couple. Today we read Isaiah 7-8, Tobit 7-9, and Proverbs 10:5-8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Looking good isn't a sin—but when does self-improvement become self-worship? In this episode, we wrestle with one of the most relevant questions Christians face today: from BBLs and Botox to braces, veneers, and hair transplants, where should followers of Jesus draw the line? Join us as we explore what Scripture says about our bodies, our motives, and whether we're pursuing God's glory or the world's approval.John 7:241 Samuel 16:7Esther 2:7Genesis 29:17 Genesis 39:6 1 Samuel 9:2 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 1 Kings 6–7 2 Chronicles 3–4 1 Corinthians 10:23–24 1 Corinthians 10:31 1 Corinthians 8:9 1 Peter 3:3–4 Proverbs 31:30 Philippians 2:3–4 Galatians 1:10
Fr. Mike zeroes in on Isaiah 5-6 today. He emphasizes the literary masterpiece of the parable of the vineyard in Isaiah 5 and how it represents the story of Israel. He also shows us how Isaiah 6 is full of rich symbolism that points to the sacred realities of the Mass. We are reminded that God is truly holy and deserving of our praise. Today's readings are Isaiah 5-6, Tobit 5-6, and Proverbs 10:1-4. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike focuses on the book of Tobit today and explains why this beautiful book is missing from non-Catholic Bibles. He dives into the history behind the arrangement of the Bible and why the Catholic Bible includes 73 books. Today's readings are Isaiah 3-4, Tobit 3-4, and Proverbs 9:13-18. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today, we begin reading the book of the prophet Isaiah and the book of Tobit! Fr. Mike helps us understand the historical context of Isaiah's ministry to Judah and the themes of condemnation and consolation in his writings. As we enter the book of Tobit, Fr. Mike emphasizes Tobit's virtuous character. Today we read Isaiah 1-2, Tobit 1-2, and Proverbs 9:7-12. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As we finish our journey in 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, Fr. Mike highlights the Babylonian exile as a critical event in the story of salvation. Although the exile is a dark and devastating part of Israel's history, Fr. Mike reminds us that it's not the end of their story. Today's readings are 2 Kings 25, 2 Chronicles 36, and Proverbs 9:1-6. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As we near the end of 2 Kings, Fr. Mike takes us through Babylon's conquest of Judah, under the leadership of King Nebuchadnezzar. He touches on the importance of wisdom in the Book of Proverbs and revisits the sons of Josiah to explain why the people of Israel are so lost. Today's readings are 2 Kings 24, 2 Chronicles 35, and Proverbs 8:22-36. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike explains why it's important to focus on our own journey with the Lord over those around us while highlighting the leadership of king Josiah. He also reminds us how the mistakes of past kings had led Israel down a dark path. Today's readings are 2 Kings 23, 2 Chronicles 34, and Proverbs 8:1-21. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
This week we are wrapping up our study in James with Pastor Andrew. Welcome to the 167!Connect with usWebsite: https://www.newlifegardner.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewLifeGardner/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newlifegardner
Fr. Mike introduces us to the Book of Proverbs while reflecting on Israel's lack of devotion to God and the Book of the Law. Much like God gave the Book of the Law to Israel, he's given the Bible to us to continue following him faithfully. Today's readings are 2 Kings 22, 2 Chronicles 33, and Proverbs 7. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike recalls Hezekiah's prayer for more time and reveals how Hezekiah did not use that time wisely. We are all only given a specific amount of time on this earth, and it's up to us to use that time to become more like Christ so we can spend eternity with him in heaven. Today's readings are 2 Kings 21, 2 Chronicles 32, and Psalm 145. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Send us Fan MailWhat if sin isn't simply breaking God's rules? In this episode, Karl Gessler explores the Bible's definition of sin and argues that sin is fundamentally falling short of humanity's glorious calling to bear the image of God. Understanding sin this way transforms how we see repentance, salvation, and the mission of Jesus. Support the show❤️ SHOW YOUR SUPPORT - LINKS BELOW...➡️ Email me: https://www.karlgessler.com/deliverance➡️ DONATE ➡️ Join our team!https://www.givesendgo.com/karlgessle... / karlgessler ...
Fr. Mike highlights Hezekiah's goodness as king of Judah, but also points out his failure to protect his people's future. While Hezekiah let his self-interest cloud his judgment, we are reminded to pray for those who will come after us, doing our best to preserve what will be theirs one day. Today's readings are 2 Kings 20, 2 Chronicles 31, and Psalm 144. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike continues to emphasize Hezekiah's faithfulness as he turns to God in prayer in the midst of battle, and reinstitutes the Passover feast. Today we read 2 Kings 19, 2 Chronicles 30, and Psalm 143. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
"Welcome to the Exile period! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to introduce the eighth biblical period, which covers the fall of the Southern Kingdom, Judah, and its exile into Babylon. They explain how the physical exile of Judah was representative of their spiritual realities, and ultimately oriented towards the healing and restoration of their unfaithfulness. We also learn about the role of prophets in this period. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike reflects on Hezekiah's righteousness as king of Judah, and his pivotal work of restoring true worship and removing false idols. By undoing all of the corrupt things his father, king Ahaz did, Hezekiah shows us that our ancestors do not define our destiny. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today we read about the critical moment when Assyria destroys the Northern Kingdom, and the ten northern tribes are exiled and assimilated among the nations. Fr. Mike explains how this moment and the foreign possession of Samaria is key in order to understand Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman in John 4. We also read about how the prophet Micah beautifully foreshadows the birth of Jesus. Today's readings are 2 Kings 17, Micah 5-7, and Psalm 140. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Congratulations—you've made it about halfway through the Bible in a Year journey! Today, we read again about King Ahaz's unfaithfulness in 2 Kings. We are also introduced to the prophet Micah, who is all about judgment and hope, and we read one of Fr. Mike's favorite psalms. Today's readings are 2 Kings 16, Micah 1-4, and Psalm 139. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today, we hear the story of the prophet Jonah, who, unlike Amos, does not want the people to repent. The readings are 2 Kings 15, Jonah 1-4, and Psalm 138. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
As we conclude the book of Amos, we hear Amos rebuke the people for grudgingly giving their time to God, as in prayer or on the sabbath, and counting the minutes until they could do whatever they wanted. Fr. Mike points out that if we don't give our hearts and minds to God, we won't be able to stand heaven, where prayer and praise are everlasting. The readings are 2 Kings 13-14, Amos 7-9, and Psalm 124. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike points out how Amos' warning against being overly preoccupied with comfort and thus blinded to the needs of others can be especially relevant to us today. The readings are 2 Kings 11-12, Amos 4-6, and Psalm 122. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike points out how Jehu followed God half-way, but God wants us to follow Him with our whole hearts. He also explains the prophecy of Amos, who is trying to call people back to the Lord before it is too late. The readings for today are 2 Kings 10, Amos 1-3, and Psalm 110. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike shortly touches on David's honest prayer in Psalm 109 before diving into the unending love God has for his people. As we continue to journey through our readings, we will begin to see the words of the prophets come to fruition as those who return to the Lord in faith will experience his undying love and forgiveness, despite their unfaithfulness. Today's readings are 2 Kings 9, Hosea 11-14, and Psalm 109. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike explains why all of us are called to listen to the prophets of the Old Testament, and why their role is so important in salvation history. Each of us is building some kind of life and picture of eternity: the question we must ask ourselves is are we building it with God or against him? Today's readings are 2 Kings 8, Hosea 8-10, and Psalm 108. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of knowing God and knowing his love for us as we read about the devastation of war and the lack of faith displayed by Israel. Without a deeper knowledge of God, not only can we struggle for hope in God's plan, but we can also fall into the temptation of losing faith in him altogether. Today's readings are 2 Kings 6-7, Hosea 4-7, and Psalm 103. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike takes a break from 2 Chronicles to enter into the book of Hosea. We learn that Hosea was a prophet called to not only witness to God's words, but to his actions as well. Fr. Mike also touches on hope in times of intense healing, and how essential this virtue is when striving to live a life for Christ. Today's readings are 2 Kings 5, Hosea 1-3, and Psalm 101. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike talks about how we see both an abundance of faith, and a great lack of faith in our readings today. While the widow Elisha visits shows us a beautiful example of walking in faith, king Ahaz fails to repent as he falls deeper into sin. Today's readings are 2 Kings 4, 2 Chronicles 28, and Psalm 127. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike zeroes in on how Uzziah's prideful desire to worship God in his own way led to his tragic death. We are reminded once again how easily the kings over Judea strayed away from God after achieving greatness. Today's readings are 2 Kings 3, 2 Chronicles 26-27, and Psalm 72. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike breaks down the moment Elijah is taken up to heaven, and the miracle Elisha performs at the spring. In 2 Chronicles, we also read about how king Amaziah suddenly turned his heart away from God by worshipping idols. Today's readings are 2 Kings 2, 2 Chronicles 25, and Psalm 70. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike looks at Joash's downfall and disobedience after the death of Jehoida. We learn how important it is to have good mentors in our lives who keep us grounded in the faith. Fr. Mike also emphasizes the significance of Psalm 69 and how to properly interpret it. Today's readings are 2 Kings 1, 2 Chronicles 24, and Psalm 69. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike explains how Athaliah's death, Jehoiada's covenant, and the crowning of Joash as king was pivotal for the restoration of the Temple. Today's readings are 1 Kings 22, 2 Chronicles 23, and Song of Solomon 8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today we read about Elijah's discouragement after fleeing from Jezebel, and how God tells him to "arise and eat" to strengthen him for the journey ahead. Fr. Mike points out how God calls us to draw strength for the journey as well, even at the end of our earthly lives. The readings are 1 Kings 19-20, 2 Chronicles 20, and Song of Solomon 6. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today we read about Elijah's discouragement after fleeing from Jezebel, and how God tells him to "arise and eat" to strengthen him for the journey ahead. Fr. Mike points out how God calls us to draw strength for the journey as well, even at the end of our earthly lives. The readings are 1 Kings 19-20, 2 Chronicles 20, and Song of Solomon 6. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today, we are introduced to the prophet Elijah, who repeatedly responds to God's invitations with faith. The readings are 1 Kings 17-18, 2 Chronicles 18-19, and Song of Solomon 5. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike connects today's reading from Songs to the teachings of St. John Paul's Theology of the Body. He also points out how helpful it is to track the timelines of the kings of Israel and Judah as we read from Kings and Chronicles simultaneously. The readings are 1 Kings 15-16, 2 Chronicles 16-17, and Song of Solomon 4. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike points out the results of what happened to the kings who built idols, and what happened to the kings who tore them down. He encourages us to tear down the idols we've built up in our own lives by trusting God with our first fruits. Today's readings are 1 Kings 14, 2 Chronicles 14-15, and Song of Solomon 3. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike touches on King Rehobo'am's last acts and the rise of his son, Abi′jah. He also explains how the mistakes of Israel's leaders show the importance of faith over success. Today's readings are 1 Kings 13, 2 Chronicles 12-13, and Song of Solomon 2. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Welcome to the Divided Kingdom period! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to explain the critical information needed to understand the rest of our biblical readings. They talk about Solomon's alliances with foreign nations, the growth of a civil war, and the incredible significance of 1 Kings 12:16. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike explains why it's better to seek counsel from those who don't necessarily always agree with us, using the experience of Rehobo′am as an example. He also touches on the failed leadership of Jerobo′am as he leads his people into false places of worship and idolatry. Today's readings are 1 Kings 12, 2 Chronicles 10-11, and Song of Solomon 1. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.