DeepSummary
In this episode, Father Mike discusses the readings from Judges 9-11, which recount the rise and fall of Abimelech as he tries to establish a monarchy, as well as the story of Jephthah and his tragic vow to sacrifice whoever comes out of his house if granted victory over the Ammonites. Despite being a mighty warrior, Jephthah makes a misguided vow that goes against God's will, ultimately sacrificing his daughter.
The episode also covers the conclusion of the book of Ruth, with Boaz marrying Ruth and their child, Obed, becoming part of the lineage of David. Father Mike reflects on the need to make wise promises to God, consistent with His character and desire for life.
The readings from Psalm 137 lament the destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian captivity, expressing sorrow and a longing for restoration.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- The stories of Abimelech and Jephthah in Judges highlight the flaws and misguided actions of the judges, despite their strengths as warriors.
- Jephthah's tragic vow to sacrifice his daughter goes against God's will and character, serving as a cautionary tale about making rash promises.
- The conclusion of Ruth's story provides a hopeful contrast, with Boaz's marriage to Ruth leading to the lineage of David.
- Father Mike emphasizes the importance of making wise promises to God that align with His desire for life and faithfulness.
- The readings from Psalm 137 lament the destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian captivity, expressing sorrow and longing for restoration.
- Despite the challenging nature of the readings, Father Mike expresses gratitude for the listeners' commitment to the journey of reading the Bible.
- The Bible presents flawed characters and difficult stories, highlighting the need for wisdom, discernment, and faithfulness in following God's will.
- The contrasting narratives of Judges and Ruth underscore the cyclical nature of Israel's relationship with God, alternating between disobedience and restoration.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “If you acted in good faith and honour when you made Abimelech king, and if you have dealt well with Jerubbabel and his house and have done to him as his deeds deserved, for my father fought for you and risked his life, and rescued you from the hand of Midian, and you have risen up against my father's house this day, and have slain his sons 70 men on 1 st, and have made Abimelech the son of his maidservant king over the citizens of Shechem, because he is your kinsman. If you then have acted in good faith and honor with Jerubbabel and with his house this day, then rejoice in Abimelech, and let him also rejoice in you.“ by Jotham
- “Jephthah made a vow to the Lord and said, if you will give the ammonites into my hand, then whoever comes forth from the doors of my house to meet me when I return victorious from the ammonites, shall be the lord's. I will offer him up for a burnt offering.“ by Narrator
- “And she said to her father, let this one thing be done for me. Let me alone two months, that I may go and wander on the mountains and bewail my virginity, I and my companions.“ by Jephthah's daughter
- “And he did with her according to his vow which he had made. She had never known a man.“ by Narrator
Entities
Company
Person
Book
Product
Episode Information
The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Ascension
4/1/24
Today's readings are Judges 9-11, Ruth 4, and Psalm 137. In the reading from Judges, we hear about the rise and fall of Abimelech, as well as the misguided and heartbreaking vow Jephthah makes to God in return for victory over the Ammonites. We also conclude the book of Ruth with the marriage of Boaz and Ruth.
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.