Embark on a spiritual journey with Father Mike Schmitz in the latest installment of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, where faith and holy scripture converge. Father Schmitz delves into the classic narratives of Numbers and Deuteronomy, providing a thought-provoking examination of the legacy and laws left by Moses. In this episode, titled "Day 77: God Is Faithful," listeners are given insight into the prophetic appointment of Joshua as Moses' successor and the tribes of Reuben and Gad's plea for land—a significant moment that reflects not only on ancient agrarian concerns but also on the virtues of commitment and agreement in the face of divine promise.
Father Mike's exploration reveals a deeper understanding of the tribes’ negotiations with Moses and God’s unwavering loyalty to His people, despite the foresight of their (the Israelites') eventual infidelity. The episode also underscores the need for financial support to keep such enriching content free and accessible to all. Ascension's mission is emphasized, highlighting the importance of donations in ensuring the continuous production and distribution of free, authentic Catholic digital media. Join Father Mike as he weaves through biblical history, inviting listeners to reflect on both human nature and divine grace, captured within the timeless wisdom of the scriptures.
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Ascension calls upon the faithful to financially support their initiative for creating free Catholic digital media. Father Mike Schmitz is at the forefront of this appeal, encouraging ongoing contributions from listeners. These donations are pivotal for Ascension's mission to produce and distribute authentically Catholic content, including podcasts and multimedia resources that are available at no cost. Such contributions allow for the nourishment of faith and the dissemination of the Gospel message.
Father Mike dives into a detailed discussion of the tribes of Reuben and Gad from the biblical chapters of Numbers 32. These tribes request the lands east of the Jordan River for their cattle, after recognizing the land's suitability for livestock following the defeat of the Midianites. Moses responds by asking them to aid in conquering the Promised Land before settling. They agree, promising their warriors will fight alongside the other Israelites, and Moses dictates that the lands of Jazer and Gilead will be theirs on this condition. Their agreement carries the implicit understanding that without their participation in the battle, they would not receive the lands and would instead have to settle in Canaan with the rest.
The biblical narrative marks an important transition as Moses prepares Joshua to become the new leader of Israel. Moses compiles the laws and the Song of Moses as a reminder of God's faithfulness and as an instructional guide for the Israelites, commanding that it be read every seven years. God predicts to Moses that the Israelites will eventually forsake Him, leading to adverse consequences. Despite this foreknowledge of betrayal, Father Mike Schmitz emphasizes God's enduring faithfulness and love, encapsulated in the Song of Moses, which stands as a testament against Israel should they turn from God's commandments.
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Ascension invites the faithful and listeners to play a supportive role in the creation and distribution of free Catholic digital media through their financial generosity.
Father Mike Schmitz extends an invitation to listeners, encouraging them to consider making an ongoing financial contribution. These donations are crucial in fueling the mission and operations of Ascension.
Schmitz elaborates on how such financia ...
Key donations help produce Ascension's free Catholic content
Father Mike elaborates on a significant moment from Numbers 32 during his Bible study, shedding light on the requests of the tribes of Reuben and Gad and the leadership of Moses in guiding the Israelites.
After the Israelites defeat the Midianites, the sons of Reuben and Gad, who have many cattle, realize that the plains of Moab are ideal for livestock. They observe the lands of Jazer and Gilead as especially suitable for their cattle and request Moses to grant this region for their possession, asking not to cross the Jordan River.
Moses directly addresses the sons of Gad and Reuben concerning their request for the land of Gilead. He compares their request to a previous incident, when the Israelites were at Kadesh Barnea and the lack of confidence by some caused a widespread loss of heart among the tribes, negatively impacting their willingness to enter and fight for the Promised Land.
Moses fears that if the sons of Reuben and Gad settle the lands east of the Jordan without first helping to secure the rest of the Promised Land, it would discourage the other tribes from fighting.
Bible study in Numbers and Deuteronomy continues
The transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua marks a critical moment in the history of Israel, as depicted in the biblical narrative. God commissions Joshua to lead His people and gives a powerful reminder of His past faithfulness, while also predicting future infidelity on the part of the Israelites.
In preparation for the impending transfer of leadership, Moses records the laws and communicates God's instructions. Moses is commanded to write down the law, present it to the Levitical priests who carry the ark of the covenant, and distribute it to the elders of Israel. This code of conduct is to be read to all the people of Israel every seven years during the Feast of Booths, ensuring that they hear, learn, and maintain a reverence for the Lord while committing to follow the statutes prescribed in the law.
Moses also writes a song and teaches it to the sons of Israel. This song details God's faithfulness and outlines Israel's obligation to obey Him. Known as the Song of Moses, its purpose is to serve as an enduring testament to God's deeds and character, eliminating any potential claims of ignorance by the people concerning their knowledge of God.
The Lord speaks to Moses, conveying that his time to pass away is near. Upon Moses' death, God forewarns that the people of Israel will turn away from Him and breach the covenant they have made. God articulates that He will consequently hide His face from the Israelites, resulting in numerous trials and suffering for the nation.
God reveals that He is aware of the inclinations of the Israelite people, even before they set foot in the promised land. He pre ...
Joshua appointed as Moses' successor
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