The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) · Podcast summary
Day 257: Choose to Love (2026)
Father Mike Schmitz reflects on the conclusion of Jeremiah, the book of Obadiah, and Proverbs 18, emphasizing the importance of choosing to love even in difficult circumstances and the consequences of turning away from God.
Listen on the show ↗Key takeaways
- 👁️Zedekiah's tragic end, marked by the murder of his sons and his own blinding, serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of rebellion against God's will and the advice of His prophets.02:28
- 🔥The destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple of Solomon by Nebuzaradan highlights the profound loss and devastation experienced by the Israelites, setting the stage for future narratives of rebuilding and restoration.03:06
- 🌟Jehoiachin's unexpected favor in captivity, after 37 years of imprisonment, offers a powerful message of hope and God's enduring love, even when individuals face the consequences of their actions.05:50
- ⛰️The Book of Obadiah condemns Edom for its pride and, more importantly, for its indifference and rejoicing in the misfortune of its brother nation, Judah, emphasizing the moral imperative to support one's kin in distress.07:40
- 👂Proverbs teaches the value of listening before speaking, as rushing to answer leads to folly and shame, highlighting the importance of thoughtful engagement and seeking knowledge.10:00
- 💔The resilience of the human spirit is acknowledged, but a 'broken spirit' is presented as an unbearable burden, suggesting the profound impact of emotional and spiritual well-being.10:05
Chapters
- 0:00Introduction
- 1:49Jeremiah 52: Zedekiah is Captured
- 4:05Jeremiah 52: Jerusalem is Plundered and Burned
- 8:41Jeremiah 52: The Captives Taken to Babylon
- 9:10Jeremiah 52: Jehoiachin Favored in Captivity
- 10:30Obadiah: Edom Will Be Brought Low and Israel Triumph
- 15:55Proverbs 18:13-16
- 18:31Father Mike's Reflection on Jeremiah 52
- 24:03Father Mike's Reflection on Jehoiachin's Favor
- 28:37Father Mike's Reflection on Obadiah
- 33:50Prayer
The digest
Today marks day 257 of the Bible in a Year podcast, featuring readings from the conclusion of the Book of Jeremiah (chapter 52), the entire Book of Obadiah, and Proverbs 18:13-16. Father Mike Schmitz guides listeners through these texts, highlighting themes of consequences, rebuilding, and the enduring call to love.
The Fall of Jerusalem and Zedekiah's Fate
Jeremiah 52 recounts the final days of Jerusalem under King Zedekiah. Zedekiah, who was 21 when he became king and reigned for 11 years, rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar, the King of Babylon. This act of defiance led to the siege of Jerusalem. The city endured a severe famine, forcing its inhabitants to flee. Zedekiah himself attempted to escape but was captured in the plains of Jericho. His capture led to a tragic end: Nebuchadnezzar slew Zedekiah's sons before his eyes, then put out Zedekiah's own eyes, bound him in chains, and imprisoned him in Babylon until his death.
Father Mike points out Zedekiah's character flaw: his inability to discern when to fight and when to surrender. He had the opportunity to avoid becoming an enemy of Nebuchadnezzar by listening to Jeremiah and surrendering. Had he done so, his fate might have mirrored that of Jehoiachin, who, though imprisoned, was not subjected to the same brutal destruction of his family. Zedekiah's flight, rather than a strategic decision, revealed a deeper character issue, leading to a tragic end for both him and his lineage.
Keep reading in The Digest
The full 5-minute article, 5 more sections, and every new episode from The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) and the creators you follow.
- Jerusalem Plundered and Burned
- Jehoiachin's Favor in Captivity
- The Prophecy of Obadiah: Edom's Downfall
- The Consequences of Indifference and the Call to Love
- Wisdom from Proverbs
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Day 264: Preaching Without Practice (2026)
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Day 262: Miracle Worker (2026)
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Day 261: Ornate Souls (2026)
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Day 260: Carrying the Cross (2026)
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