The Book of Genesis

This book lays the foundation for the rest of the Bible. It helps us understand who God is and how He works in the world. Genesis is a story of beginnings, but it also points to what will come later. It reminds us that God is always working to bring people back to Him.

Genesis was written a long time ago. It comes from the time when the people of Israel were learning who they were and how they belonged to God. These stories were passed down for many years before they were written. People told them to their children and grandchildren to help them remember.

Most of the book was likely written by several people over time. Some parts may go back to Moses, who led the people out of Egypt. Others may have added to it later. The goal was not to write a history book like we read today. It was to show who God is, who we are, and how we are called to live.

Genesis was written for the people of Israel. It helped them remember where they came from and why they were chosen by God. It helped them stay faithful when life was hard or when they were far from home. The book gave them hope and helped them trust in God’s care.

Even though it is very old, Genesis still speaks to us today. It reminds us that we belong to God. It teaches us that God works through people, even when they are weak or make mistakes. And it helps us understand the rest of the Bible.

Genesis is written like a story. It uses simple words and clear pictures to help us understand big ideas. The people in Genesis talk to God, make choices, and deal with the results. These stories are not full of fancy words. They are easy to follow and remember.

The book includes many kinds of stories. Some are about the beginning of the world. Others are about families, travels, and promises. There are also parts that repeat ideas or show patterns. This helps people remember what matters most.

Genesis also uses symbols. For example, the tree in the Garden of Eden shows the choice between trusting God or going our own way. The rainbow in the story of Noah shows that God keeps His promises. These pictures stay in our minds and help us understand what the stories mean.

The stories in Genesis are meant to be read slowly and shared. They help us think and ask questions. They speak to people of all ages. Even children can understand many of the lessons. But adults also find meaning when they read it again.

Genesis teaches many lessons that are important in the Catholic faith. These themes help us understand God, ourselves, and how we are meant to live. Here are some of the main ideas in the book:

• God made everything good
  Genesis shows that God made the world on purpose and with care. Everything God made was good. People are special because we are made in His image.
• Sin hurts our relationship with God
  Adam and Eve disobeyed God, and that brought sin into the world. Genesis shows how sin leads to pain and brokenness. But it also shows that God never gives up on us.
• God makes promises
  God made a covenant with Abraham. He promised to bless his family and to use them to bless the whole world. This promise continues through Isaac, Jacob, and their children.
• God chooses people who are not perfect
  The people in Genesis make many mistakes. But God still works through them. This shows us that we do not have to be perfect to follow God. We just need to trust Him.
• Family and faith are connected
  Genesis tells many family stories. These stories show how faith is passed down. They remind us that family life is important in God’s plan.

These themes connect with the whole story of the Bible. They help us understand why Jesus came. They also remind us that God still calls each of us to trust Him and live in love.

Genesis is made up of 50 chapters. It has two big parts. The first part is about the creation of the world. The second part is about one family that God chooses to work through.

1. Creation and the Early World (Genesis 1:1–11:26)
This part tells how everything began. It includes the creation of the world, Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Noah and the flood, and the Tower of Babel. These stories show how people turned away from God, but God stayed close.

2. God’s Chosen Family (Genesis 11:27–50:26)
The second part follows the story of Abraham and his family. These stories help us understand God’s promise and how it begins to unfold.

• Abraham’s story: Genesis 11:27–25:11
  God calls Abraham to leave his home and follow Him. Abraham trusts God, even when the path is hard. God promises to bless his family.
• Isaac’s family: Genesis 25:19–28:9
  Isaac is Abraham’s son. His story is short but important. It includes the birth of his sons Esau and Jacob, and how Jacob receives the blessing.
• Jacob’s journey: Genesis 28:10–36:43
  Jacob has many struggles but learns to trust God. He has twelve sons, who become the leaders of the tribes of Israel. One of his sons is Joseph.
• Joseph in Egypt: Genesis 37:1–50:26
  Joseph is sold by his brothers but rises to power in Egypt. He helps save his family during a famine. This sets the stage for the story of Exodus.

Each part of Genesis builds on the last. Together, they show how God works through people and families to bring hope and healing.

Even though Genesis is very old, it still speaks to us now. The stories help us understand who we are, why the world is broken, and how God is still with us.

Genesis reminds us that we are made in God’s image. That means every person has worth. In a world that often forgets this, Genesis tells us to treat others with care and respect.

It also helps us see the problem of sin. People still make bad choices. We still hurt one another. Genesis shows that sin has been part of the world from the beginning, but God does not give up on us.

Genesis teaches us about faith. Abraham trusted God, even when he didn’t know what would happen. We are called to do the same. When life is confusing or hard, we can remember that God is still working, just like He did in the stories of old.

We hear parts of Genesis read at Mass during the year. These readings help us remember where our story with God begins. They are part of the Roman Catholic lectionary, which is the schedule of Bible readings for Mass.

Some Genesis readings are used during Ordinary Time. Others come up in Lent, Easter, and special feast days. We hear the creation story at the Easter Vigil. This reminds us that God made the world good and full of light.

The stories of Abraham are also read at Mass. We hear how he trusted God and followed Him. These readings help us think about faith, promise, and trust.

Joseph’s story is read too. His life shows how God brings good even from bad situations. When we hear Genesis at Mass, we remember that God has always worked through people to bring about His plan. And He still does.

Click on a link below for more information and resources for a specific reading.

Easter Vigil Mass

God Makes the World Good

In Genesis 1:1–2:2, we hear how God made the world. He created everything in an orderly way, step by step. First came light, then sky, land, and sea. He made the sun, moon, and stars. Then came plants, animals, and people. Each part had a place and purpose.

God saw that all He made was good. People were special because they were made in His image. God gave them care over the earth. On the seventh day, God rested. This showed that rest and worship are part of life. The story reminds us that everything starts with God. Creation is not random. It has order, meaning, and goodness.

1st Sunday of Lent Year A

The First Sin in the Garden

In Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7, God forms the first man from the earth and breathes life into him. He places him in a garden filled with good things, including the tree of life and the tree of knowledge. Everything the man needs is there, and he is free to enjoy it all—except one tree.

But the serpent tricks the woman into eating the fruit from that tree. She shares it with the man. After eating it, they realize they are naked and feel shame. This is the first sin. It shows how people can choose to turn away from God, even when He gives them everything they need. Sin brings guilt, fear, and separation.

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

A Partner for the Man

In Genesis 2:18-24, God sees that the man should not be alone. He brings animals to the man, but none are the right partner. So God makes a woman from the man’s side while he sleeps. When the man sees her, he knows she is the right one.

This story shows that men and women are made to be together. Marriage is part of God’s plan. The man and woman belong to each other and form one family. This is the beginning of how God teaches us about love, trust, and shared life.

10th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

God Calls Them Out

In Genesis 3:9-15, God looks for the man and woman after they eat the fruit. They hide because they are afraid. God asks what happened. The man blames the woman, and the woman blames the serpent. No one takes full responsibility.

God speaks to the serpent and tells him he will be cursed. There will be struggle between him and the woman. One day, her offspring will strike his head. This points to a future hope, even after sin enters the world. God does not leave them, but He does let them face the results of their choice.

The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

A Promise After the Fall

In Genesis 3:9-15, 20, God speaks to Adam and Eve after they sin. They hide from Him, but He calls them out. Adam blames Eve, and Eve blames the serpent. God tells the serpent that one day a child of the woman will crush him. This points to the coming of Jesus through Mary.

Even though they disobeyed, God still cares for them. Adam names the woman Eve because she will be the mother of all the living. On the feast of the Immaculate Conception, we remember that Mary was chosen to be free from sin. She is the new Eve, and her yes to God brings hope for everyone.

1st Sunday of Lent Year B

A Sign of God’s Promise

In Genesis 9:8-15, God speaks to Noah and his sons after the flood. He makes a promise that He will never again destroy all life with a flood. This promise is not just for Noah, but for all people and all creatures on earth.

God gives a sign to help them remember His promise. He places a rainbow in the sky. When people see the rainbow, they will know that God remembers His promise. This shows that God stays faithful, even when people fail. It reminds us that God wants peace, not destruction.

Pentecost Vigil Mass

The Tower That Fell Apart

In Genesis 11:1-9, people on earth all speak the same language. They decide to build a tall tower to make a name for themselves. They want to stay together and not spread out across the earth.

God sees what they are doing and steps in. He confuses their language so they cannot understand each other. The people stop building and go their separate ways. The city is called Babel. This story reminds us that human pride can lead us away from God’s plan. God wants people to trust Him, not build their own way to greatness.

2nd Sunday of Lent Year A

A Call and a Promise

In Genesis 12:1-4a, God tells Abram to leave his home and go to a new land. Abram does not know where he is going, but he trusts God and obeys. God promises to bless him and make his family into a great nation.

This moment marks the start of a special journey. God chooses Abram to begin a new chapter in His plan for the world. Through Abram, all people will one day be blessed. His trust shows us how to follow God, even when the path is not clear.

Corpus Christi Year C

Bread, Wine, and Blessing

In Genesis 14:18-20, a priest named Melchizedek brings bread and wine to Abram. He blesses Abram and thanks God for giving him victory in battle. Melchizedek is both a king and a priest, and he honors God in a special way.

Abram gives Melchizedek a gift in return. This short moment shows respect, worship, and thanks. The bread and wine remind Catholics of the Eucharist. Melchizedek points to the kind of priesthood we later see in Jesus, who offers Himself for us.

Feast of the Holy Family Year B

A Promise Kept

In Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3, God tells Abram not to be afraid. Even though he has no children, God promises that his descendants will be as many as the stars. Abram believes this, and God is pleased with his faith.

Later, the promise comes true. Sarah gives birth to a son, even though she is very old. They name the boy Isaac. This shows that God keeps His promises, even when they seem impossible. Abram’s trust sets an example for all who follow God.

2nd Sunday of Lent Year C

A Promise Sealed by God

In Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18, God tells Abram that his descendants will be as many as the stars. Abram believes Him. Then God asks Abram to prepare a special sacrifice with animals, following a custom of the time.

As night falls, Abram sees a flame pass between the pieces of the offering. This shows that God is making a covenant with him. God promises to give Abram’s family a land of their own. This moment marks a lasting promise from God to His people.

16th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

A Visit with Big News

In Genesis 18:1-10A, Abraham sees three visitors near his tent. He welcomes them with kindness and offers them food and rest. He treats them with great care, not knowing right away that they are messengers from God.

As they eat, one of the visitors tells Abraham that his wife Sarah will have a son. This is surprising because she is very old. The message brings hope. It reminds us that nothing is too hard for God, and that He keeps His promises in His own time.

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Abraham Speaks Up for Others

In Genesis 18:20-32, God tells Abraham that the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah are full of sin. He plans to check if the people there are truly that bad. Abraham is worried that good people might be punished along with the bad.

Abraham asks God to spare the city if there are fifty good people. Then he asks again for fewer and fewer. Each time, God agrees. This shows that God listens and is patient. It also shows Abraham’s care for others. He does not stay silent when people are in danger.

2nd Sunday of Lent Year B

A Test of Trust

In Genesis 22:1-2, 9A, 10-13, 15-18, God tells Abraham to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice. Abraham listens and prepares to do what God asks, even though it is very hard. Just as he is about to act, God stops him.

God sees that Abraham is willing to trust Him fully. Instead of Isaac, a ram is offered. Then God repeats His promise to bless Abraham’s family. This story shows how faith means trusting God, even when we do not understand. Abraham’s trust becomes an example for all who follow God.

Easter Vigil Mass

Faith on the Mountain

In Genesis 22:1-18, God tells Abraham to take his son Isaac to a mountain and offer him as a sacrifice. Abraham listens and obeys, even though it is very hard. He takes Isaac up the mountain and prepares the altar.

Just before he acts, God stops him. A ram is provided instead. God sees Abraham’s trust and repeats His promise to bless him and his family. This story shows deep faith and reminds us that God always provides what we need. Abraham’s obedience becomes a model for those who follow God.

---

Selections from the Book of Genesis are also read at weekday Masses:

• Monday of the 5th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 1:1-19: Creation’s First Days
• Tuesday of the 5th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 1:20-2:4a: Creation and Rest
• Wednesday of the 5th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 2:4b-9, 15-17: Creation and Eden’s Garden
• Thursday of the 5th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 2:18-25: Companionship in Eden
• Friday of the 5th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 3:1-8: Temptation and Fall in Eden
• The Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of the Church – Genesis 3:9-15, 20: The Consequences of Disobedience
• Saturday of the 5th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 3:9-24: Consequences of Sin
• Monday of the 6th Week in Ordinary Time I –  Genesis 4:1-15, 25: The Story of Cain and Abel
• Tuesday of the 6th Week in Ordinary Time I –  Genesis 6:5-8; 7:1-5, 10: Noah’s Righteousness Amid Wickedness
• Wednesday of the 6th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 8:6-13, 20-22: God’s Promise After the Flood
• Thursday of the 6th Week in Ordinary Time I –  Genesis 9:1-13: God’s Covenant with Noah
• Friday of the 6th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 11:1-9: The Tower of Babel
• Monday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 12:1-9: The Call of Abram
• Tuesday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 13:2, 5-18: Abram and Lot Separate
• Wednesday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18: Abram’s Vision and God’s Covenant
• Thursday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time I –  Genesis 16:1-12, 15-16: Hagar and Ishmael
• Friday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 17:1, 9-10, 15-22: God’s Covenant with Abraham
• Thursday of the 5th Week of Lent – Genesis 17:3-9: Covenant with Abraham
• Saturday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 18:1-15: The Promise to Abraham
• Monday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 18:16-33: Abraham Intercedes for Sodom
• Tuesday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time I –  Genesis 19:15-29: Lot’s Escape from Sodom
• Wednesday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 21:5, 8-20a: Abraham Sends Hagar and Ishmael Away
• Thursday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 22:1b-19: Abraham’s Test of Faith
• Friday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 23:1-4, 19; 24:1-8, 62-67: The Burial of Sarah and the Marriage of Isaac
• Saturday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 27:1-5, 15-29: Jacob Deceives Isaac for the Blessing
• Monday of the 14th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 28:10-22a: Jacob’s Dream at Bethel
• Tuesday of the 14th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 32:23-33: Jacob’s Struggle and Blessing
• Friday of the 2nd Week of Lent – Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a: Joseph’s Betrayal by His Brothers
• Wednesday of the 14th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 41:55-57; 42:5-7a, 17-24a: Joseph’s Brothers Come to Egypt
• Thursday of the 14th Week in Ordinary Time I –  Genesis 44:18-21, 23b-29; 45:1-5: Joseph Reveals Himself to His Brothers
• Friday of the 14th Week in Ordinary Time I – Genesis 46:1-7, 28-30: Jacob Moves to Egypt
• Advent Weekday on December 17 – Genesis 49:2, 8-10: Jacob’s Blessing to Judah
• Saturday of the 14th Week in Ordinary Time I –  Genesis 49:29-32; 50:15-26a: Joseph’s Last Words and Forgiveness

God Made the World Good

In this episode of The Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how Genesis chapters 1 and 2 tell the true beginning of everything. He says this creation story is not like others from ancient times. Those other stories talk about violence or selfish gods. But Genesis shows a good God who creates out of love.

Fr. Mike explains that God didn’t make people to be slaves or toys. God made people to share in his own life. He made us in his image. That means every person has worth. Men and women are made with the same value.

He also says God made us for work, rest, and love. Before sin entered the world, work was good. Rest was part of God’s plan too. And God gave man and woman to each other as a gift. Fr. Mike reminds us that this world was made good. And so were we.

When Trust Breaks: How Sin Entered the World

In The Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz explains how everything changed in Genesis chapters 3 and 4. God had made the world good. But sin entered when Adam and Eve stopped trusting Him.

Fr. Mike says the serpent didn’t tell them to stop believing in God. Instead, it made them doubt God’s goodness. The real question was not, “Do you believe in God?” but “Do you belong to Him?” Adam and Eve chose to take control instead of trusting God’s love.

Fr. Mike points out that only the serpent is cursed. The pain Adam and Eve face is not just punishment—it’s a way to learn love through sacrifice. God still takes care of them, even after they leave the garden. He makes clothes for them. He doesn’t leave them alone.

Later, we hear about Cain and Abel. Cain gives God a gift, but not his best. Abel gives his best. Fr. Mike says this is a reminder to give God our first and best—not just whatever is left. Cain gets angry and kills Abel. But God warns him first. Sin is waiting, but we don’t have to give in.

Fr. Mike reminds us that even in the middle of sin and pain, God still loves us and cares for us. And we can choose to love Him back by offering Him our best each day.

Two Paths, One Choice: Walking with God or Not

Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about how things keep getting worse in Genesis chapters 5 and 6 after sin enters the world. He explains that there are two family lines—one from Seth and one from Cain. Seth’s line followed God. Cain’s line did not. But later, these two lines mixed. This led more people to stop walking with God.

Fr. Mike says that sin spreads fast. The world becomes full of violence and brokenness. God sees this and is sad. But He doesn’t give up. He chooses Noah, a man who still walks with Him. Fr. Mike reminds us that Noah stayed close to God, even when the world around him was falling apart.

Fr. Mike also explains that who we choose to marry matters. The people we spend time with shape our lives. When Seth’s family married into Cain’s line, they started to turn away from God too.

Even when the world is dark, Fr. Mike says we can still choose to walk with God—just like Noah did.

A Fresh Start and a Broken World

Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Genesis chapters 7 to 9: Noah, the flood, and what happens after. He explains that Noah did everything God asked. God saw that Noah was faithful, so He saved him and his family. The flood wiped out the rest of the world, but God gave Noah a new start.

Fr. Mike says that after the flood, God made a promise. He put a rainbow in the sky as a sign that He would never flood the whole earth again. God also allowed people to eat animals now. But He made it clear that human life must always be respected.

Fr. Mike also talks about how brokenness shows up again, even after the flood. He explains the story about Noah getting drunk and what his son Ham did. Fr. Mike says that this shows how sin keeps hurting families. But even in a broken world, we can still choose to live under God’s care and grace.

Ambition or Excellence?

In The Bible in a Year Podcast for Genesis chapters 10 and 11, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about how people spread across the world after the flood. He explains how Noah’s sons had children, and those families became many nations. One man, Nimrod, stood out. Fr. Mike says Nimrod was strong and became a ruler. But his power may have come from pride.

Fr. Mike then talks about the Tower of Babel. He says the problem wasn’t the tall tower. The problem was the people’s goal. They wanted to make a name for themselves. They didn’t want to honor God. Fr. Mike says this shows the difference between ambition for self and striving to be who God made you to be.

He encourages us to aim for true greatness—not for attention or fame, but to honor God. Fr. Mike says it’s good to want to be holy. It’s good to work hard. But we should use our gifts for God and for others, not just to lift ourselves up.

God Calls Abram, and He Trusts

Fr. Mike reads Genesis chapters 12 and 13 and talks about how God calls Abram to leave his home and follow Him. God promises to bless Abram and make his name great. Fr. Mike explains that Abram shows strong faith by listening and going, even though he doesn’t know where he’s headed.

Fr. Mike also shares how Abram messes up when they go to Egypt. Abram lies and says Sarai is his sister. Fr. Mike says this shows that even someone with great faith can still make poor choices. But God still stays with Abram.

Later, Fr. Mike points out how Abram handles a problem with Lot. Their people are fighting, so Abram offers Lot the first choice of land. Fr. Mike says this is another moment of trust. Abram doesn’t fight for the best spot. He trusts that God will take care of him, no matter what.

Rescue, a Blessing, and a Promise

In The Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Genesis chapters 14 and 15. He highlights Abram’s bravery and trust in God. He explains how Abram goes on a mission to rescue Lot. He gathers his men and defeats the enemy kings. Fr. Mike says this shows how Abram cares deeply for his family.

After the rescue, Abram meets Melchizedek, a priest and king. Melchizedek blesses Abram and offers bread and wine. Fr. Mike points out how this connects to Jesus, who also gives bread and wine at the Last Supper. He reminds us that Jesus is the great high priest.

Fr. Mike also talks about the covenant God makes with Abram. God promises land, a son, and many descendants. Abram believes God, and God counts that faith as good and right. Fr. Mike explains how God passes through the animal pieces alone, showing that even if people fail, God will stay faithful. God takes the promise seriously—and takes on the cost Himself.

Trying to Take Control vs. Trusting God’s Plan

In The Bible in a Year Podcast for Genesis chapters 16 and 17, Fr. Mike talks about how Abram and Sarai try to make things happen on their own. Sarai gives her maid Hagar to Abram so they can have a child. But this only causes pain and problems. Hagar becomes upset. Sarai becomes angry. Fr. Mike says this shows what happens when we stop trusting and try to take control.

Fr. Mike explains how God still blesses Hagar and her son. God sees her pain and speaks to her. Later, God speaks again—this time to Abram. He changes Abram’s name to Abraham and Sarai’s name to Sarah. This shows their new role in God’s plan.

God promises they will have a son together. Fr. Mike reminds us that Abraham laughs, but still listens. God gives a sign of the covenant—circumcision. Fr. Mike says this is about giving control back to God and trusting Him, even when the plan seems impossible.

God Is Just, Even When We Don’t Understand

Fr. Mike Schmitz explains Genesis chapters 18 and 19. God visits Abraham with a promise. Sarah laughs when she hears she will have a child, but God reminds them that nothing is too hard for Him. Fr. Mike says this shows God’s plan is still moving forward, even when it seems impossible.

Fr. Mike also talks about the fall of Sodom and Gomorrah. He says God is not acting out of anger but out of justice. Abraham speaks up for the city, asking God to spare it for the sake of a few good people. God agrees, showing He is fair and listens.

Fr. Mike explains that Lot and his family are saved, but his wife looks back and turns to salt. Lot’s daughters later make a bad choice, and Fr. Mike says the Bible doesn’t praise it. Instead, it shows how sin leads to more trouble.

God’s justice is real, but so is His mercy. Fr. Mike reminds us that we can trust both.

Failing Doesn’t Mean You’re Finished

In The Bible in a Year Podcast for Genesis chapters 20 and 21, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how Abraham is known as the father of faith, but he still makes mistakes. He lies again about Sarah, saying she is only his sister. Fr. Mike points out that even though Abraham messes up, God still protects Sarah. God even steps in and warns Abimelech in a dream.

Fr. Mike says we’re like Abraham. We might follow God most of the time, but sometimes we fail. The good news is that our failure doesn’t push God away. God still keeps His promises. Abraham’s mistake doesn’t cancel the covenant. Fr. Mike reminds us that God’s mercy lifts us back up.

He also talks about the birth of Isaac. God keeps His promise to Abraham and Sarah, even in their old age. Fr. Mike says God is faithful, even when we are weak. God never gives up on us. And we shouldn’t give up on ourselves.

The Test That Points to Jesus

Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about how Abraham faces his biggest test in Genesis chapters 22 and 23. God asks him to offer his son, Isaac. Abraham trusts God, even when the request is hard. Fr. Mike explains that Abraham believes they will both return. He trusts that God will make a way.

Fr. Mike also shows how Isaac is not a small child. He’s strong and could have stopped his father, but he chooses to obey. This shows that Isaac also trusts. It’s not just Abraham’s test. They go through it together.

Fr. Mike says this points to Jesus. Just like Isaac carried the wood, Jesus carried the cross. Just like Abraham and Isaac, the Father and the Son work together. God will provide.

The story is not about losing what we love. It’s about learning to trust God. Fr. Mike reminds us that God is not our enemy. He is with us in every test.

God’s Help in the Unknown

Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about the story of Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis chapter 24. Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac. The servant travels far and doesn’t know what will happen. He prays for help. Fr. Mike says this shows how much we need God when we face things we can’t control.

Fr. Mike points out how God listens to the servant’s prayer. Rebekah shows up and does exactly what the servant asked for in prayer. It’s clear God is guiding it all. Fr. Mike says it’s easy to trust God when we can see how things work out.

But he also reminds us that God’s plan is still working even when we can’t see it. Isaac and Rebekah didn’t know what would happen. They just kept going step by step. Fr. Mike says that’s what faith looks like—trusting God in the dark and taking the next step anyway.

Trading Blessings for Beans

In The Bible in a Year Podcast for Genesis chapters 25 and 26, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about how Isaac and Rebekah repeat the same mistake Abraham and Sarah made. They lie and say they are siblings. Fr. Mike says this shows how people often fall into the same sins over and over again, even across generations.

He also talks about Esau trading his birthright for a bowl of soup. Fr. Mike says it seems foolish, but we do the same thing when we give up what matters for something quick and easy. In moments of weakness, we trade what is lasting for what is right in front of us.

Fr. Mike points out that Jacob takes advantage of Esau. This shows that both brothers are flawed. One is desperate. The other is selfish. Fr. Mike says their story is like a mirror. We see our own brokenness in their choices.

We need God’s help. Without Him, we fall for the same things again and again.

Blessings, Tricks, and Family Trouble

Fr. Mike Schmitz talks Genesis chapters 27 and 28, and about how Jacob tricks his father Isaac to steal Esau’s blessing. Fr. Mike says this shows how broken their family is. Jacob already took the birthright. Now he lies and takes the blessing too.

Fr. Mike points out that Isaac doesn’t take the blessing back. It was given, and it stays. He says this reminds us of the sacraments. Once you are baptized, that can’t be undone. Even if you walk away, you’re still marked as a child of God.

Fr. Mike also talks about how Isaac loved Esau, and Rebekah loved Jacob. This split caused even more pain. Esau wants to kill Jacob. The whole family suffers. Fr. Mike says when parents show favoritism, it hurts everyone.

He encourages families to love each child the same. We all need to know we are loved. That’s what brings peace to a family.

Love, Lies, and a Lot of Pain

Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about how messy Jacob’s family is in Genesis chapters 29 and 30. He says Jacob got tricked by Laban, just like Jacob had tricked his brother Esau. It’s like Jacob is now feeling what it’s like to be deceived. Laban gives him Leah instead of Rachel, and the pain spreads from there.

Fr. Mike focuses on Leah’s sadness. She wants Jacob to love her, but he doesn’t. Every time she has a baby, she hopes this will make him care. She thinks, “Maybe now he’ll love me.” But it doesn’t happen. Fr. Mike says many people feel this way—like they’re only tolerated, not loved.

He points out that God sees Leah. God blesses her. She finally stops trying to earn love and says, “I will praise the Lord.” Fr. Mike says this shows how God works even when life feels unfair. Families may be messy, but God is still working through it all.

Jacob Runs, Fights, and Trusts

Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how things get tense in Genesis chapters 31 and 32. Jacob sees that Laban is no longer friendly. God tells Jacob to go home. Jacob obeys. He secretly leaves with his family and all his stuff. Laban chases after him, but God warns Laban in a dream not to harm Jacob.

Fr. Mike explains that Jacob speaks up. He tells Laban how hard he worked for years. Even when cheated, Jacob stayed faithful. He says God saw the struggle and protected him. Jacob and Laban make peace and part ways.

Then Jacob prepares to meet his brother Esau. He’s scared. He prays and sends gifts ahead. That night, Jacob wrestles with a man. Fr. Mike says Jacob won’t let go until he’s blessed. Jacob gets a new name—Israel.

Fr. Mike says God was with Jacob the whole time. He says in the that we can trust God too, even when life is scary or uncertain.

A Moment of Peace, Then More Trouble

Fr. Mike Schmitz explains that Genesis chapters 33 and 34 show something new today—reconciliation. Jacob meets Esau and expects trouble. But instead, Esau forgives him. Fr. Mike points out this is the first time in Genesis where two people make peace. Jacob even gives Esau a gift as a sign of healing. He calls it a blessing. Fr. Mike says it’s like giving back the blessing he once stole.

But the peace doesn’t last. Right after this, Dinah is harmed. Her brothers take revenge. They trick the people of Shechem, then attack. Fr. Mike says the Bible clearly says what happened to Dinah was evil. He explains that the story is full of pain, anger, and brokenness.

Fr. Mike reminds us that life is often like this—good moments followed by hard ones. He says we must keep going. We praise God when things are good. We name evil when it shows up. And we ask God to help heal the brokenness inside us. Genesis keeps showing both blessing and sin. And God keeps working through it all.

God Stays Faithful, Even When Life Is Messy

In The Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about how Genesis chapters 35 and 36 keeps showing a messy family story. Jacob, now called Israel, has lost his wife Rachel. His family has grown, but it’s still full of pain and problems. Reuben sins against his father. The twelve sons are now all named, and their stories will unfold soon.

Fr. Mike points out that even though Jacob’s life has been filled with lies and struggle, God still blesses him. God reminds him of the promise made to Abraham and Isaac. Fr. Mike says this shows that God keeps His word, even when people fail.

He also explains why the chapter lists Esau’s descendants. Esau didn’t get the blessing, but he’s still Abraham’s grandson. God promised Abraham many descendants, and He keeps that promise—even through Esau.

Fr. Mike reminds us that God is faithful. Even when life feels broken, God still works through it. That’s what Genesis keeps showing.

Jealousy Turns Ugly in Joseph’s Story

Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how Genesis chapter 37 tells the story of Joseph, who is just 17. His father, Jacob, loves him more than the others. This causes deep jealousy in his brothers. Joseph also shares dreams that show him in a place of honor. That just makes things worse.

Fr. Mike explains how jealousy becomes envy, and envy turns into resentment. The brothers go so far that they plan to kill Joseph. Instead, they sell him. Then they lie to their father and break his heart.

Fr. Mike says this is what sin can do when we don’t deal with it. He warns that resentment can grow and take over. We might not think we could ever act like Joseph’s brothers, but unchecked jealousy can lead anyone down a dark road.

Genesis shows us the danger of envy. Fr. Mike says the best way to fight it is with gratitude. Thank God for what you have. That’s how healing begins.

Messy Choices in Jesus’s Family Tree

In the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about a very broken story in Genesis chapter 38. He explains how Judah makes a lot of bad choices. His sons die, and he promises his last son to Tamar, but he doesn’t keep that promise. Tamar waits, but when nothing happens, she acts on her own.

Fr. Mike says Tamar tricks Judah into sleeping with her. Judah thinks she’s a prostitute, but it’s really his daughter-in-law. She becomes pregnant, and when he finds out, he first wants to punish her. But then she shows him proof, and Judah admits he was wrong.

Fr. Mike points out that this story is messy and full of sin. But he also shows how Tamar is named in Jesus’s family line. Even in all this pain and failure, God still works through it.

Genesis keeps reminding us that God doesn’t need perfect people to do His work. He uses the broken, the weak, and the messy to bring about something good.

Joseph Stays Strong When Life Gets Hard

In the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Joseph’s story in Genesis chapters 39 and 40. He reminds us that Joseph has been sold by his brothers and is now a slave in Egypt. But even in that hard place, God is with him. Joseph works hard and earns trust. Everything he touches succeeds. Then trouble comes again. Potiphar’s wife lies about Joseph, and he is thrown into prison.

Fr. Mike points out that Joseph did nothing wrong, yet he suffers. Still, Joseph doesn’t give up. He doesn’t live like a victim. He keeps trusting God. Even in prison, God is with him. Joseph helps others and earns respect.

Fr. Mike says this shows us something important. Just because life is hard doesn’t mean God is gone. God is still with us, even when things go wrong. Like Joseph, we can keep going, trusting that God has not left us. Genesis reminds us that God never forgets us.

Go to Joseph: A Faithful Life in a Hard World

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how Genesis 41 to 42 continues the story of Joseph. Pharaoh has dreams, and no one can explain them. Then Joseph is brought in. He says only God can give the answer, and God does. Joseph explains the dreams and gives a plan. Because of this, Pharaoh puts Joseph in charge of the land.

Fr. Mike points out that Joseph is now thirty years old. He has gone through many years of pain, but he stayed faithful. God was with him, and Joseph stayed with God. Joseph stores food during the good years, and when famine comes, he is ready.

Fr. Mike says these words are key: “Go to Joseph.” In Latin, it’s Ite ad Joseph. In Genesis, people go to Joseph for bread. Fr. Mike connects this to Saint Joseph in the New Testament, who cared for Jesus, the Bread of Life. He says both Josephs show us how to stay faithful when life is hard.

Judah Steps Up: A Family Begins to Heal

In this episode of the Bible in the Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about how things are changing in Genesis chapters 43 and 44. Joseph’s brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin. Joseph tests them again. This time, Judah speaks up. He offers his own life to protect Benjamin. He doesn’t want to hurt his father again.

Fr. Mike says this shows that the brothers are not the same. Years ago, they were jealous of Joseph and sold him. They didn’t care about their father’s pain. But now, they are different. Judah puts others first.

Fr. Mike points out that Judah had done wrong in the past. But now he chooses to do what is right. This reminds us that people can change. We are all broken, but we don’t have to stay that way. God can help us become better. Genesis shows us a family slowly coming back together, and it gives us hope for our own lives too.

Tears of Joy: Joseph’s Family Comes Back Together

Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about a powerful moment in Genesis chapters 45 and 46. Joseph finally tells his brothers who he is. He cries loudly. Everyone in the house hears him. Then he hugs Benjamin, his full brother, and weeps again. Later, Joseph is reunited with his father, Jacob. They both cry with joy.

Fr. Mike says people cry like this because they know things could have ended differently. Joseph might never have seen his family again. Jacob might have died thinking his son was gone forever. But God made a way for them to come back together.

Fr. Mike reminds us that these tears are not just about sadness. They are about joy, hope, and healing. Genesis shows us how broken families can be restored. Fr. Mike says it’s good to cry when something beautiful happens—because we know how much it matters.

A New Home and a Father’s Blessing

Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how the story in Genesis chapters 47 and 48 keeps moving forward. Joseph brings his family to Egypt. Pharaoh welcomes them and gives them land in Goshen. Joseph takes care of them and makes sure they have food during the famine.

Fr. Mike explains that the famine is very hard. People in Egypt even give up their land and animals to survive. Joseph helps manage it all. His wisdom keeps people alive. Meanwhile, Jacob, also called Israel, settles in and lives there for many more years.

As Jacob nears death, he asks Joseph to bury him back in the land of his fathers. He also blesses Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. He gives the greater blessing to the younger one, even though it surprises Joseph. Fr. Mike points out that this is part of how God’s plan works—sometimes in unexpected ways.

Goodbye to Genesis, Hello to Trust

In the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz wraps up the story of Genesis with three key points. First, he explains how Jacob gives special blessings to each of his sons. He skips the first three and gives the biggest blessing to Judah. Fr. Mike says this points to Jesus, who comes from the line of Judah.

Second, he talks about Joseph and his brothers. After their father dies, the brothers worry Joseph will get revenge. But Joseph forgives them again. Fr. Mike reminds us that Joseph trusted God’s plan. Even though others meant harm, God used it for good.

Lastly, Fr. Mike shows how Genesis ends with a message of hope. Even when life is hard or unfair, God is still with us. Just like he was with Joseph, he is with us too. Fr. Mike says this gives us a reason to keep trusting God, no matter what happens.

The Bible

Looking to learn more about the Bible? This resource walks through key parts of Scripture. It speaks to readers of all ages and helps you see how the Bible is a guide for life.

You can read about how the Old and New Testaments connect. You will find tips for reading and ideas for growing in faith. Check it out here.

Is Genesis a history book?

Genesis is not a history book like the ones we read in school. It tells true things in story form. The stories help us understand who God is, who we are, and how sin entered the world.

Did God really make the world in six days?

Some Catholics read the six days as a way to show order and purpose. Others see the days as symbols, not 24-hour periods. What matters is that God made everything and that it was good.

Why is Genesis important for Catholics?

Genesis helps us understand how our story with God begins. It explains why we need a Savior. Many important Catholic beliefs start in Genesis, like the value of human life and God’s plan for families.

Is the story of Adam and Eve true?

The story is true in what it teaches. It shows that the first people turned away from God. Catholics do not all agree on every detail, but we believe sin began with real people.

What does Genesis teach us about faith?

Genesis shows us people like Abraham who trusted God even when it was hard. It reminds us to follow God and believe that He has a plan for us.

Genesis is the first book of the Bible. It begins with God creating the world. He makes everything good. The first people, Adam and Eve, live in a garden. But they disobey God, and sin enters the world. This breaks their friendship with Him.

The next stories show how people continue to turn away from God. Cain kills his brother Abel. The world becomes full of evil, so God sends a flood. He saves Noah and his family. Later, people try to build a tower to reach heaven, but God scatters them.

Genesis then shifts to one family. God chooses Abraham and makes a promise to him. He will have many children and be a blessing to the world. The story follows Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. These men struggle, but they trust God. The book ends with Joseph in Egypt, saving his family during a famine.

Genesis teaches us that God made us, loves us, and wants to bring us back to Him. Even when we sin, He stays with us. These stories remind us to trust Him and follow His way.

Genesis is filled with stories that help us understand our faith. It tells where we come from and how God has always stayed close to His people. Take time to read it for yourself. Go slowly, and think about what each story means in your life.

Have you read Genesis? What stood out to you? Was there a part that surprised or helped you? Share your thoughts in the comment section below. Your ideas can help others grow in faith too.