DeepSummary
In this episode of the Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reads from 2 Kings chapters 13-14, Amos chapters 7-9, and Psalm 124. He reflects on the Book of Amos, where the prophet rebukes the people of Israel for their spiritual complacency and lack of reverence for God. They couldn't wait for religious observances like the New Moon and Sabbath to be over so they could return to their business dealings and personal pursuits.
Fr. Mike emphasizes that if we don't cultivate a heart for worship and prayer in this life, we will struggle to find joy in eternal worship in Heaven. Amos warns the Northern Kingdom of destruction and exile for their sins, but also promises eventual restoration. Fr. Mike notes that this restoration is ultimately fulfilled through the spread of Christianity and the inclusion of Gentiles as God's people.
The episode concludes with a reading of Psalm 124, where the psalmist thanks God for delivering Israel from affliction and oppression. Fr. Mike encourages listeners to return to the Lord with their whole hearts and minds, expressing gratitude for God's continual mercy and grace.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- We must cultivate a heart for worship and prayer in this life in order to find fulfillment in Heaven's eternal praise.
- God warns of judgment for spiritual complacency and unfaithfulness, but also promises mercy and restoration.
- Christians today are part of the fulfillment of God's promise to gather and restore His scattered people.
- We should return wholeheartedly to the Lord each day with gratitude for His grace and protection.
- The Book of Amos addresses themes of justice, righteousness, and spiritual prioritization.
- God is patient but also requires repentance; He disciplines those He loves.
- The spread of Christianity to the Gentiles enacts the promised restoration of Israel outlined in Scripture.
- Prayer, worship, and right living should flow from a heart devoted to God, not mere duty.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “And so because of that, on that day, says the Lord, I will turn your feasts into mourning, all your songs into lamentation.“ by Amos (as quoted by Fr. Mike)
- “And so we just give God thanks. Thank him for restoring us. Thank him for calling us back, and also thank him for giving us time to be able to come back to him right now, this day and every day, this day, day 180, once again, a chance to return to the Lord with our whole heart, mind, soul and strength.“ by Father Mike Schmitz
- “If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, let Israel now say, if it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us up alive.“ by The Psalmist (as quoted by Fr. Mike)
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Episode Information
The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Ascension
6/28/24
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.