The Book of Sirach

Sirach is a book in the Old Testament that offers advice about living a good and faithful life. It was written by a Jewish teacher named Ben Sira, probably around 200 years before the time of Jesus. He wrote it to help people follow God’s ways in their daily lives. It covers many topics, like family, friendship, money, work, and worship.

This book is sometimes called Ecclesiasticus, especially in older Catholic Bibles. It is part of the Catholic and Orthodox Bibles but not included in most Protestant Bibles. Even though it was written long ago, its advice still makes sense today. It speaks to people who want to live with honesty, kindness, and trust in God.

Sirach connects everyday choices to faith. It helps people understand that how we treat others is part of how we serve God. It teaches that wisdom is not just about knowledge. Wisdom grows from listening, praying, and doing what is right.

Many of the sayings in Sirach sound like the Proverbs. They are short, clear teachings. Some parts tell stories about great people from the past. These remind us that we are part of something bigger. Sirach helps young people and adults think about how to live with respect, peace, and care for others.

Sirach was written by a man named Jesus ben Sira. He lived in Jerusalem around 200 years before the birth of Jesus Christ. He was a wise teacher who cared about passing on the faith. He wanted young people to stay close to God even when the world around them was changing.

At that time, many Jewish people were coming into contact with Greek culture. This brought new ideas that did not always match their faith. Ben Sira saw that some people were forgetting God’s ways. He wrote this book to help them stay rooted in what is good and true.

Ben Sira used stories, sayings, and advice to help people think about how to live. He taught that wisdom comes from fearing God and keeping his commandments. He respected the Law of Moses and wanted others to do the same.

Later, his grandson translated the book into Greek so that more people could read it. That is how it became part of the wider Jewish and Christian tradition. Even today, Sirach helps us see how to live with wisdom and faith in the middle of a noisy world.

Sirach is written like a collection of wise sayings and teachings. Many of the verses are short and easy to remember. They give simple advice about how to live a good life. These sayings often come in pairs, showing two sides of an idea. This style helps the reader think more deeply.

Some parts of the book sound like a father talking to his children. Other parts are like a teacher giving lessons to students. There are also prayers and poems mixed in. This variety makes the book feel personal and practical at the same time.

The book often repeats ideas in different ways. This helps the message stick. It talks about things like honesty, patience, and self-control again and again. Each time, it uses clear examples that connect to real life.

At the end of the book, there are stories about famous people from Jewish history. These heroes are praised for their faith and wisdom. Their lives are shown as models to follow. Sirach teaches with both words and examples.

Sirach is filled with themes that match Catholic beliefs and values. It shows how faith should guide our daily lives. It teaches that wisdom is more than knowledge. Wisdom means living in a way that pleases God.

Here are some main themes found in Sirach:

• Fear of the Lord: This means having deep respect for God. It is the beginning of wisdom. Sirach says that real understanding starts when we listen to God.
• Respect for parents: Sirach says honoring your father and mother brings blessings. This connects with the Fourth Commandment and is important in Catholic teaching.
• Care for the poor: Sirach reminds us to help those in need. Giving to the poor is like offering a gift to God.
• Humility: Sirach warns against pride. He teaches that being humble leads to peace and respect.
• Faithfulness to the Law: The book honors the commandments. It teaches that following God’s law brings wisdom and joy.

Sirach also lifts up prayer, worship, and trust in God’s mercy. It fits well with Catholic views about living a holy and honest life. It shows how our faith should shape the choices we make each day.

Sirach is a long book with many teachings. It is not written like a story, but it is still easy to follow. The book is made up of short teachings grouped by topic. These sections help readers focus on one idea at a time.

Here is a simple way to look at the main parts of the book:

• Sirach 1–23: These chapters focus on personal wisdom. They talk about how to live with honesty, self-control, and fear of the Lord. For example, Sirach 1:1–20 speaks about the roots of wisdom.
• Sirach 24–42: These chapters look at wisdom in the world and in relationships. Chapter 24 is a poem where Wisdom speaks. Later chapters give advice about work, family, and how to treat others.
• Sirach 44–50: This section is called the Praise of the Ancestors. It tells the stories of great leaders and faithful people, starting in Sirach 44:1.
• Sirach 51: The last chapter is a prayer of thanks. It shows how the writer trusted God through hard times.

These sections help us take in the lessons slowly. Each part offers a different way to grow in wisdom and live as a faithful person.

Even though Sirach was written long ago, it still matters today. The world has changed, but people still face many of the same problems. We still deal with money, family, friendships, and choices. Sirach gives simple advice that helps us handle these parts of life with faith.

Young people can learn how to respect their parents and stay away from bad influences. Adults can find guidance about work, honesty, and helping others. It reminds all of us to be kind, to stay humble, and to pray often.

Sirach also teaches that trusting God brings peace. In a world that moves fast and feels noisy, this message is still needed. It helps us slow down and think about what really matters.

Parents, teachers, and catechists can use Sirach to guide youth. Its short sayings are easy to remember and share. Sirach invites everyone to live wisely and walk with God in everyday life.

Sirach is used in the Roman Catholic lectionary, which is the list of Bible readings used at Mass. It is mostly read during weekdays and special feast days. These readings help us hear the wisdom of Sirach in church.

Some well-known passages appear in the lectionary. For example, Sirach 2:1–11 talks about trusting God in hard times. It reminds us to stay faithful even when life is tough. This is often read during Ordinary Time.

Sirach 3:2–6, 12–14 is read on the Feast of the Holy Family. It talks about honoring your father and mother. This fits well with the message of family love and care.

Other readings from Sirach appear during Ordinary Time and special celebrations. These readings give practical advice that helps people live the faith every day. Sirach speaks clearly about wisdom, mercy, and the importance of choosing what is right. That is why the Church still includes it at Mass.

Feast of the Holy Family

Honor Starts at Home

Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14 reminds us that honoring our parents is part of living a life that pleases God. Respect for father and mother is not just about being polite. It is a lasting duty that shows love and brings blessings. This kind of honor includes listening, being kind, and showing care, even when it’s hard.

The reading also speaks to caring for parents when they are older. It tells us not to ignore them or grow bitter. Instead, we should show patience and compassion. Helping our parents in their old age is seen as a way to show love for God. It teaches that how we treat our family really matters.

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

The Quiet Strength of Humility

Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29 teaches that humility is better than pride. It tells us to act with gentleness, not to show off or try to seem more important than others. Being humble makes it easier to learn and grow. It brings peace to our lives and helps us stay close to God.

The reading also says that people who listen and seek wisdom will be stronger in spirit. Those who are proud often ignore good advice and miss the truth. Water puts out fire, and kindness calms anger. In the same way, quiet strength helps build good relationships. Humility helps us live with others in a better way.

6th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A

The Freedom to Choose What Is Right

Sirach 15:15-20 reminds us that God gives each person free will. We have the ability to choose between good and evil. God does not force us to do what is right, but he shows us the path and invites us to follow it.

The reading says that life and death are set before us, and we must decide which way to go. God sees all that we do and knows our choices. He wants us to keep his commandments and live with wisdom. Choosing what is right brings life and peace.

8th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Words Show the Truth

Sirach 27:4-7 teaches that what we say shows who we really are. Just like a tree is known by its fruit, a person is known by their words. Our speech reveals what is in our hearts. If someone speaks with kindness and truth, they are likely living in a good way.

The reading also reminds us to listen carefully to how others speak. A person’s words will show if they are wise or foolish. Time and conversation will reveal someone’s true character. This is a call to speak with care and to live with honesty.

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A

Let Go of Anger

Sirach 27:30–28:7 teaches that holding onto anger and hate leads to sin. It warns that those who refuse to forgive will face judgment themselves. If we want mercy from God, we must show mercy to others. Letting go of grudges brings peace.

The reading also reminds us to think about our own faults before judging others. We are called to forgive quickly and not stay angry. Life is short, and we should not waste it on revenge. Instead, we should pray, forgive, and trust God to handle justice.

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

God Listens to the Lowly

Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18 reminds us that God is fair and does not show favoritism. He does not treat the rich better than the poor. God listens to those who are weak, alone, or in trouble. Their prayers reach him and are never ignored.

The reading says that when someone is wronged, their cry is heard. God pays attention to their pain and responds with care. He hears the prayers of orphans, widows, and those who are suffering. This is a message of hope for anyone who feels forgotten or pushed aside.

Selections from Sirach are also read at weekday Masses:

• Monday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 1:1-10: The Source of All Wisdom
• Tuesday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 2:1-11: Guidance for Serving the Lord
• Wednesday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 4:11-19: Guidance Through Wisdom
• Thursday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time I –  Sirach 5:1-8: The Peril of Overconfidence
• Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 6:5-17: The Value of True Friendship
• Saturday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 17:1-15: The Gifts of Creation to Humanity
• Monday of the 8th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 17:20-24: The Path to Reconciliation
• Tuesday of the 8th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 35:1-12: The Fruits of Righteous Offerings
• Wednesday of the 8th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 36:1, 4-5a, 10-17: Prayer for Divine Manifestation and Justice
• Thursday of the 8th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 42:15-25: The Endless Splendor of Creation
• Friday of the 8th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 44:1, 9-13: The Memory of the Godly
• Saints Joachim and Anne – Sirach 44:1, 10-15: Faithful Ones Remembered
• Friday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time II – Sirach 47:2-11: David’s Strength and Praise
• Saturday of the 2nd Week of Advent –  Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11: Elijah’s Fiery Zeal
• Thursday of the 11th Week in Ordinary Time II –  Sirach 48:1-14: Elijah’s Fiery Spirit
• Saturday of the 8th Week in Ordinary Time I – Sirach 51:12 cd-20: Seeking Wisdom

Wisdom and Reverence

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares his thoughts on Sirach chapters 1, 2, and 3. He says this book is filled with wisdom and written around the time of the Maccabean revolt. It focuses a lot on the fear of the Lord, which Fr. Mike describes as taking God seriously—not being scared, but living with respect for God’s greatness.

Fr. Mike highlights how Sirach teaches that true wisdom comes from keeping God’s commandments. He points to Sirach 1:26, which says if we want wisdom, we must obey the Lord. He also talks about how a divided heart leads to foolish choices. Following God with trust leads to peace and strength.

One of his favorite verses is Sirach 2:1. It warns that those who choose to serve God should be ready for trials. He compares two translations and shares how both remind us to stay faithful when things are hard.

In Sirach chapter 3, Fr. Mike reflects on honoring parents. He explains that this is not just a good idea, but a commandment that brings blessing. He says it’s especially important today, when honoring parents is often overlooked. Sirach reminds us that care and respect for our parents is tied to long life and a just life.

Everyday Wisdom and Real Friendship

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Sirach chapters 4, 5, and 6. He says Sirach gives us simple, practical advice for daily life. He focuses on the call to care for the poor and not to ignore people in need. He shares how he personally feels challenged by the verse that says, “Do not avert your eye from the needy.”

Fr. Mike encourages listeners to treat Sirach like Proverbs, but more intense. He recommends reading along when possible, because the wisdom is packed together and easy to miss. He highlights how important it is to speak with care, act justly, and stay humble.

Chapter 6 stands out for its teaching on friendship. Fr. Mike talks about different types of friends—some are only there when life is good, others will hurt you when things get hard. He says a faithful friend is rare and valuable, like a shelter or a treasure. Good friends are connected to the fear of the Lord.

He ends by reminding us that wisdom takes effort and patience. Fr. Mike invites us to keep reading Sirach in the days ahead. He says there’s a lot of treasure in these chapters and it’s worth coming back to again and again.

Wise Words for Daily Life

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Sirach chapters 7, 8, and 9. He says Sirach is full of everyday wisdom, and it speaks directly to how we live in relationships. He mentions how it reminds us to respect work, honor our parents, and be faithful in family life. Sirach gives practical advice on caring for animals, raising children, and being cautious with friendships.

Fr. Mike points out how Sirach talks about honoring responsibilities. Whether it’s how we treat servants, spouses, or the poor, the message is clear: treat others with care. He is especially struck by how the text speaks of respecting old friends and not trading them for new ones.

He also highlights chapter 9, which warns against temptations. Fr. Mike says the writer, speaking to his son, gives strong advice on guarding your eyes, your heart, and your choices. He connects this to modern life and says it’s like avoiding risky parts of the internet or media, not just the streets.

Fr. Mike ends by saying the Lord might be calling us to avoid not only sin, but the situations that lead us there. These are called near occasions of sin. He encourages listeners to read Sirach slowly and let the wisdom soak in. He says he wants to write some of these verses in his journal so he doesn’t forget them.

Pride, Humility, and Real Wisdom

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Sirach chapters 10, 11, and 12. He says Sirach is like a father giving his son advice for daily life. The goal is to help the son walk wisely in the world. Fr. Mike points out that it’s full of short sayings that are easy to miss unless you slow down.

He focuses on Sirach 10, which talks about pride. Fr. Mike says we often forget how small we really are. He shares a story from his own life when someone reminded him, “No one will remember you after you die.” It helped him remember to stay humble.

He also highlights Sirach 11. He says we should not judge people based on looks or success. God can lift up the lowly and bring down the proud. He reminds us to stay focused on our own work and not get caught up in matters that aren’t ours.

Finally, Fr. Mike talks about Sirach 12, which teaches how to deal with friends and enemies. He says we should not trust everyone right away. Some people will hurt us if we’re not careful. He encourages listeners to reflect on this wisdom and apply it in small ways each day.

Choosing Wisdom and Joy in Daily Life

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Sirach chapters 13, 14, and 15. He says Sirach is packed with good advice and compares it to sticky tar—if you spend time with proud or evil people, their ways will rub off on you. He encourages listeners to stick close to humble and wise people instead.

Fr. Mike points out Sirach 14:11, where it says, “Treat yourself well according to your means.” He says this is surprising and good advice. We shouldn’t spend too much or be selfish, but we also shouldn’t be afraid to enjoy life and give good things to others.

He also reflects on how we sometimes miss happy days by worrying too much. Sirach reminds us that life is short, so we should enjoy simple blessings while we can. Giving to friends and helping others brings joy too.

In Sirach 15, Fr. Mike talks about free will. He says God gives us a real choice—life or death, good or evil. We can follow the commandments if we want to. God wants us to choose wisely, but He won’t force us.

A Parent’s Hope and God’s Mercy

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Sirach chapters 16, 17, and 18. He says the book feels like a parent speaking to a child. The parent cares deeply and wants the child to walk with the Lord. Fr. Mike says holiness is more important than success or strength.

He points out how painful it is when loved ones don’t follow God. Fr. Mike encourages listeners who feel that pain to keep praying and trusting God’s mercy. He shares that chapter 16 reminds us that every person will be judged fairly.

In chapter 17, Fr. Mike says God sees everything we do. Nothing is hidden. But he also says God gives grace to those who repent and helps those who feel weak.

Fr. Mike ends with thoughts from chapter 18. He talks about giving gifts without harsh words. He also shares advice from Sirach about thinking before we act or speak. He says these chapters offer wisdom we should take to prayer.

Gossip, Timing, and the Gift of Prudence

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Sirach chapters 19, 20, and 21. He says these chapters give us simple wisdom for everyday life. One verse that stands out to him is, “Never repeat a conversation.” He says it’s a great reminder to avoid gossip.

Fr. Mike highlights the danger of trusting others too quickly. He says Sirach tells us to question a friend before jumping to conclusions. He reminds us to assume the goodwill of others and give people the benefit of the doubt.

He also talks about the importance of timing. A wise word spoken at the wrong time can lose its value. Fr. Mike says prudence means doing the right thing at the right time in the right way.

Finally, he says the Book of Sirach is filled with little pieces of wisdom worth writing down. He encourages listeners to take notes and reflect on these verses. Wisdom like this helps us speak and live well.

Watch Your Mouth and Guard Your Thoughts

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reads Sirach chapters 22 and 23. He reflects on the damage caused by foolishness and careless speech. He says that spending time with foolish people leads to trouble. Fr. Mike reminds us that what we say and who we listen to shapes our lives.

He highlights Sirach 22:27, which asks for a guard over the mouth. Fr. Mike connects this with a psalm that asks God to keep watch over our words. He says we need wisdom not just in what we hear, but in what we say.

In Sirach 23, he reflects on the need for self-control. Fr. Mike wishes for discipline over his thoughts, so his sins don’t multiply. He says this is something we can all ask God for—help to think clearly and choose wisely.

He also warns about hidden sins. Fr. Mike says there is no such thing as a private sin, because God sees everything. The Book of Sirach reminds us to live in the light and to ask God to help us stay close to Him.

Wisdom Is Sweet and Strong

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reads from the Book of Sirach, chapters 24 and 25. He doesn’t spend much time commenting directly on these chapters. His focus stays mostly on 1 Maccabees.

Fr. Mike briefly reflects on wisdom and foolishness during the prayer. He asks God to help us be wise in what we do and what we avoid. This short prayer connects with the themes in Sirach about wisdom in daily life.

Wise Words and What We Take In

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Sirach chapters 26 and 27. He says he skipped over most of one chapter in the last episode, but in this one he reflects on these chapters. He doesn’t add much to the strong language in Sirach about wives but reminds listeners that good character—whether in a husband or wife—is a gift.

Fr. Mike highlights the verse about the sieve. Just like shaking a sieve leaves behind waste, the thoughts we hold onto show what we’ve allowed into our minds. He says we need to pay attention to what we fill our minds with.

He also points out that trials test our character. Just like fire tests pottery, hard times show what we’re made of. Fr. Mike encourages us to let our thoughts and words show wisdom.

He ends by asking God to fill our hearts and minds with good things. That way, our words and actions will bring life to others.

Words Can Heal or Hurt

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Sirach chapters 28 and 29. He says that Sirach is similar to Proverbs, filled with short teachings that might seem random at times. But one clear theme stands out: the power of our words.

Fr. Mike highlights Sirach 28:12, which says if you blow on a spark it glows, but if you spit on it, it goes out. Both actions come from the mouth. He uses this to remind us that our words can either bring light or cause harm. It all depends on how we choose to speak.

He also reflects on gossip, slander, and anger. Fr. Mike says these sins are often seen as normal, but they cause deep damage. He mentions how words can cut even deeper than a sword, quoting Sirach 28:17.

He ends by asking God to help us use our words well. Fr. Mike encourages us to speak in ways that bring peace, not destruction. He says this is a daily challenge, and we all need help and prayer to do it well.

Why Discipline Matters

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Sirach chapters 30 and 31. He talks about the importance of discipline, especially for children. Sirach 30 says that discipline helps a child grow into a good and wise person. Fr. Mike reminds us that correction is a form of love, not harm.

He explains that discipline is not the same as violence. Scripture is not telling parents to hurt their children. Fr. Mike shares that even a simple timeout can be good discipline. The goal is to shape the heart, not to cause pain.

Fr. Mike also talks about how kids need to be taught so they can become kind, strong, and respectful people. He says discipline should help children become the kind of people others enjoy being around.

Fr. Mike ends with care for those who were hurt by bad discipline. He says real discipline builds up and does not tear down. If someone was abused, that was not from God. He reminds us that we matter, our past matters, and we are loved.

Wisdom for Daily Life and Speech

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares thoughts on Sirach chapters 32 and 33. He focuses on the everyday wisdom the book offers, especially for how we speak and act in groups. He points out Sirach 32 as a great guide for social situations, like knowing when to speak and when to stay quiet.

Fr. Mike laughs about how Sirach even warns against talking during music. He says many of us have been in that awkward spot where someone talks through a show or speech. Sirach gives simple advice: speak briefly, only if needed, and don’t show off. It’s about showing respect for others.

He also highlights the theme of humility. Sirach calls us to defer to others and recognize their value. Fr. Mike reminds us that everyone matters—especially to God.

This part of Sirach offers very practical wisdom, and Fr. Mike encourages us to let it shape how we live. He connects it to the idea that following God’s law also means caring about how we treat others.

Wisdom and Worship in Sirach

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares a few thoughts on Sirach chapters 34 and 35. He focuses on how these chapters speak about wisdom, sacrifice, and living well. He says Sirach helps us see that wisdom is more than knowledge. It’s about knowing how to live and act the right way at the right time.

Fr. Mike points out that experience matters. Sirach 34 says those who have traveled or been through hard times often learn more. Fr. Mike says this kind of learning helps us become wise, not just smart. He calls this kind of wisdom “prudence.”

He also talks about worship and giving in Sirach 35. He highlights that God asks us to give generously but not as a way to bribe him. Fr. Mike warns that we can sometimes act like we are trying to buy blessings from God, which is not true giving.

Fr. Mike ends by reminding us to watch out for that “mercenary heart.” He says we should give because we love God, not because we want something in return. Sirach helps guide us in that kind of honest and generous worship.

Choosing Wise Friends and Listening to Your Own Heart

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Sirach chapters 36 and 37. He points out that Sirach is full of wisdom for daily life. These chapters speak about prayer, good friends, and how to choose who to listen to.

Fr. Mike highlights the advice about being careful with counselors. Some people pretend to help but only care about themselves. He says it’s wise to test a friend or advisor before trusting them. That’s not being mean—it’s just smart.

He also reads the part that says to stay close to a godly person. A true friend will care when you are struggling. Fr. Mike says these are the kinds of people we want in our lives.

Most of all, he focuses on the line that says to listen to the counsel of your own heart. Fr. Mike says we should learn to understand our hearts. He reminds us that God can speak to us there, and we should pray for help to follow that path.

Work, Wisdom, and Right Use

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reads from Sirach chapters 38 and 39. He reflects on how Sirach teaches us to honor the work of doctors and tradespeople. Fr. Mike says their skills come from God and help keep the world going.

He talks about how everything God made is good. Things like fire, water, and even wine are good when used the right way. But when we use them the wrong way, they can hurt us.

Fr. Mike connects this to temperance and prudence. He says being wise means using good things at the right time and in the right way. That’s how we live with balance.

He reminds us that wisdom starts with prayer. Sirach says to seek wisdom early and ask God for help. Fr. Mike says we need this every day to live well and make good choices.

Choosing the Best in a World Full of Good

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares a few thoughts on Sirach chapters 40 and 41. He notices how the author lists many good things in life, like music, friends, and treasure. But Sirach keeps saying something else is better. For example, a good wife is better than both children and a strong city.

Fr. Mike says this shows how we should not settle for just good things. We should look for what is best. He says the love of wisdom is better than wine and music. It’s a reminder to focus on what really matters.

He also talks about the passage on death in chapter 41. Fr. Mike says death can feel bitter or welcome, depending on a person’s life. But Sirach reminds us not to fear it, because life itself is a gift from God.

Fr. Mike encourages us to see each day with others as a gift. He says we should notice that gift now, not only after it’s gone. He closes by reminding listeners they are not alone, especially those who are grieving.

God Made Everything Good

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Sirach chapters 42, 43, and 44. He points to the beauty in creation. The sun, the moon, the stars, snow, mist, and even the sea—all made by God. These things show His power and glory.

Fr. Mike highlights a line from Sirach 43: “He is the all.” He says we can speak about God forever, and we still won’t run out of things to say. Even if we use all our strength to praise Him, it won’t be enough.

He also talks about Sirach 44, which honors the people who came before us. Fr. Mike asks what people will remember about us. He hopes they remember that we loved them and helped them know Jesus.

Fr. Mike ends by saying it’s a gift to know God and praise Him. He reminds us again that God is the all. He encourages us to love God more each day.

Remembering the Heroes of Faith

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Sirach chapters 45 and 46. He points out how the Book of Sirach tells the stories of people we already know. We’ve heard about Moses, Aaron, Phinehas, and others earlier in the year. Now Sirach honors them again, and we can see their lives in a new light.

Fr. Mike says it’s a gift to hear their stories after following Scripture for all of these days. He reminds us that these are part of our spiritual family. These men followed God, made sacrifices, and led others with courage. Sirach helps us remember them and learn from them.

He encourages us to see these stories as part of our inheritance. They belong to all of us as children of God. Fr. Mike calls it a blessing to know these names and their lives through the word of God.

Heroes and Warnings from the Past

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reads from the Book of Sirach, chapters 47, 48, and 49. He gives some brief reflections on the people mentioned in these chapters.

Fr. Mike talks about how it’s a gift to hear about people like David, Elijah, Josiah, and others again. He says we know their stories now, so hearing their names in Sirach means more. It reminds us of their lives and how they followed God.

He points out how Sirach honors the good leaders but also shows the faults of others. Some were faithful, but many turned away. Fr. Mike says these stories help us see both the blessings and the dangers in turning from God.

A Life Shaped by Wisdom

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Sirach chapters 50 and 51. He says Sirach has been a gift, full of wisdom for daily life. He encourages listeners to remember the book’s focus on seeking wisdom.

Fr. Mike talks about how Sirach points us to live in a way that pleases God. Even if we forget the details, he says we should hold on to the desire for wisdom. That longing helps guide our choices each day.

He also connects Sirach to the Book of Wisdom. Fr. Mike says both books show us how to live well, especially by staying close to God and avoiding idols.

He ends by saying the Book of Sirach teaches us how to belong to God. It reminds us to live wisely and walk in the light.

The Bible

If you want to learn more about the Bible, check out this resource: The Bible. It gives a simple look at the books of Scripture. It helps you see how the Bible connects with our faith and life today.

This guide is written for young Catholics and those new to reading Scripture. It is easy to follow. You will find clear summaries and helpful ideas. Take a moment to explore it and grow in your love for God’s Word.

Is Sirach in all Bibles?

No. Sirach is in Catholic and Orthodox Bibles, but not in most Protestant Bibles. Some call it a “deuterocanonical” book, which means it is part of the second group of Old Testament books in the Catholic Bible.

Who wrote Sirach?

Sirach was written by a Jewish teacher named Jesus ben Sira. He lived around 200 years before Jesus Christ. His grandson later translated the book into Greek.

Why is Sirach important for Catholics?

Sirach teaches wisdom that helps us live with faith and love. It talks about family, friendship, work, and prayer. The Church uses it in Mass readings and values its clear teachings.

Is Sirach the same as Ecclesiasticus?

Yes. Sirach and Ecclesiasticus are two names for the same book. Some older Bibles use the name Ecclesiasticus.

Can kids and teens read Sirach?

Yes. Sirach is good for all ages. Its short sayings are easy to understand and give helpful advice for everyday life.

Sirach is a book of the Bible filled with wise advice for daily life. It was written by Jesus ben Sira, a teacher who lived in Jerusalem around 200 years before Jesus was born. He wanted to help people stay faithful to God during a time when many were turning to new ideas.

This book covers many topics. It talks about family, friendship, work, prayer, and respect for elders. Sirach reminds us that real wisdom starts with loving and honoring God. It says that we should treat others kindly, speak with care, and help the poor.

Catholics see Sirach as a helpful guide for living a good life. It teaches values that match what the Church believes. The book is easy to understand, with short sayings and simple lessons. It is used in the readings at Mass, especially during weekdays and special feast days.

Sirach may be old, but its lessons still matter today. It encourages us to slow down, think carefully, and choose what is right. It connects our faith with how we live each day.

Take a little time this week to read part of Sirach. You don’t need to read it all at once. Just choose a chapter or two and think about what it says. The advice is simple and easy to follow. It can help you grow in your faith and treat others with more care.

After reading, come back and leave a comment. What stood out to you? Did a verse remind you of something in your own life? Share your thoughts with others and learn from their ideas too.