The Book of Deuteronomy

Deuteronomy is more than a list of laws. It is a call to love and obey God. Moses wants the people to pass on their faith to their children. He teaches that following God brings life and blessing. This book helps us reflect on faith, memory, and trust in God’s guidance.

Deuteronomy was written a long time ago, before the people of Israel entered the Promised Land. The book says that Moses gave these words to the people. Many parts are written as speeches from Moses. He speaks like a leader giving his final advice.

Some Bible scholars think others may have helped write or finish the book later. This might have happened during the time of King Josiah. That was about 600 years before Jesus was born. It was a time when the people were trying to return to God’s ways.

The book fits with that time. It teaches people to follow God, care for others, and avoid false gods. It calls the people to choose what is right and live in peace with each other.

Whether written all by Moses or added to later, the message is the same. Love God. Keep his commandments. Teach your children to do the same.

Deuteronomy is written like a speech from a wise leader. Moses is speaking to the people. He is getting them ready to enter the new land. He tells stories from the past and gives rules for the future.

The book is not a long list of laws. It mixes stories, commands, and lessons. Moses talks like a parent teaching children. He repeats the most important parts. He reminds the people again and again to love God and obey him.

The writing is clear and direct. It is meant to be heard out loud. The people in Bible times often listened to Scripture instead of reading it. That is why the words are strong and simple. They are easy to remember.

You will also find prayers and blessings in Deuteronomy. The words are often full of feeling. They help the people stay close to God, even when life is hard.

Deuteronomy teaches many lessons that connect with Catholic life today. It is full of reminders to love God, follow his ways, and care for others. These themes help us understand what it means to live as God’s people.

Here are some key themes from Deuteronomy that are important in Catholic teaching:

• Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, and strength. This is called the Shema. Jesus said it is the greatest commandment.
• Obey God’s commandments. They are not just rules but a way of life that leads to peace and blessing.
• Teach your children. Faith is meant to be shared from one generation to the next.
• Care for the poor, the stranger, the widow, and the orphan. Justice and mercy are signs of real faith.
• Remember what God has done. Memory keeps us thankful and helps us stay faithful.

These themes are part of the Church’s message too. The Catechism teaches us to love God, care for others, and live in community. Deuteronomy helps us see how these truths are part of God’s plan from the beginning.

Deuteronomy has a clear structure. It is made up of speeches and teachings from Moses. These are grouped into different parts. Each section has a special focus. Here is a simple way to understand how the book is divided:

• Introduction and first speech (Deuteronomy 1:1–4:43)
  Moses tells the people about their journey in the desert. He reminds them of how God helped them and what they learned along the way.
• Second speech: the main teaching (Deuteronomy 4:44–28:68)
  This is the longest part. Moses gives the Ten Commandments again. He teaches the people how to live in the new land. He tells them to love God and care for each other.
• Covenant and final lessons (Deuteronomy 29:1–30:20)
  Moses talks about the covenant with God. He asks the people to choose life and blessing by following God.
• Moses’ last words and death (Deuteronomy 31:1–34:12)
  Moses gives final instructions. He blesses the tribes and then dies on the mountain. Joshua becomes the new leader.

These sections help us see the whole message. Moses is guiding the people to trust God and live as his people in a new land.

Even though Deuteronomy is very old, its message still matters today. It teaches us how to live as people who follow God. It reminds us that faith is not just about words. It is about how we treat others and how we live every day.

Deuteronomy tells us to love God with our whole heart, soul, and strength. Jesus said this is the most important commandment. That means this book is still at the center of our faith. It calls us to put God first and trust him in all things.

This book also tells us to care for those in need. It speaks about justice, kindness, and helping others. These are values we still need in families, schools, parishes, and the world.

Deuteronomy reminds us to teach our children, pray often, and remember God’s help in our lives. These lessons help us stay close to God and grow stronger in our faith.

Deuteronomy is read many times during the Church year. It appears in both Sunday and weekday Mass readings. These passages help us understand God’s word and how to live it out today.

One of the most well-known readings is Deuteronomy 6:4-9. This is the Shema: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.” Jesus repeats this in the Gospel when he says the greatest commandment is to love God with all your heart.

Another important reading is Deuteronomy 30:15-20. This passage talks about choosing life or death, blessing or curse. Moses tells the people to choose life by loving and obeying God. This reading often appears during Lent.

Deuteronomy is also used on special feast days and at the Easter Vigil. Its words remind us of God’s care, his law, and our call to follow him. The Church still shares this book because its message is clear and lasting.

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

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Living by God’s Law

In Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-8, Moses tells the people to listen carefully and follow God’s commandments. He reminds them not to add or take away from what God has taught. These laws are meant to guide them as they enter the new land. If they follow them, they will live well and stay close to God.

Moses also says that other nations will notice how wise and good these laws are. People will see that Israel has a strong and fair way of life. They will also see that God is near to his people. This reading reminds us that how we live can show others what we believe. Obeying God helps us stay on the right path and be a light to the world.

Trinity Sunday Year B

Remember What God Has Done

In Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40, Moses reminds the people of all that God has done for them. He asks them to think about history and if any other nation has heard God’s voice or been rescued in such a clear way. God showed his power by bringing them out of Egypt with signs and wonders.

Moses tells them to never forget that the Lord is the only true God. He tells them to keep God’s laws and live by them in the land they are about to enter. By doing this, they will have a long and blessed life. This reading reminds us to look back at what God has done and to choose to follow him every day.

9th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

A Day to Rest and Remember

In Deuteronomy 5:12-15, the people are told to keep the Sabbath day holy. They must rest from work, and so must everyone in their household, even servants and animals. This day is meant for slowing down and focusing on God.

Moses reminds them that they were once slaves in Egypt. God brought them out and gave them freedom. Because of this, they should always remember to rest and give rest to others. The Sabbath is not just about rules. It is a way to honor God and care for the people around us.

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Love God with All You Are

In Deuteronomy 6:2-6, Moses tells the people to keep God’s commandments so they may live long and well in the land ahead. He reminds them to fear the Lord and to obey his ways, not just for themselves, but for their children too. If they follow God, they will receive many blessings.

Moses tells them that there is only one true God. He calls them to love God with all their heart, soul, and strength. These words should be kept close and passed on to the next generation. This reading reminds us to stay faithful and teach our children to do the same.

The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Year A

Chosen to Love and Obey

In Deuteronomy 7:6-11, Moses tells the people that they are chosen by God. They are not special because they are strong or large in number. God chose them simply because he loves them and keeps his promise to their ancestors.

Because of this, they must love and obey him in return. They are told to keep his commandments and walk in his ways. God will stay faithful to them if they stay faithful to him. This reading reminds us that being chosen means living with love, trust, and responsibility.

Corpus Christi Year A

Remember Who Took Care of You

In Deuteronomy 8:2-3, 14b-16a, Moses tells the people to remember their time in the desert. God led them through hard times to test them and teach them. He gave them manna, a special food, to show that they must depend on him, not just on bread.

Moses warns them not to forget God when life gets easy. God brought them out of slavery and guided them through danger. He gave them water from a rock and fed them when they had nothing. This reading reminds us to stay thankful and trust God in every season of life.

9th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A

A Clear Choice

In Deuteronomy 11:18, 26-28, 32, Moses tells the people to keep God’s words close to their hearts. They should remember them always and live by them every day. God’s teachings should shape how they think and act.

Moses sets two paths before them: blessing if they obey, and trouble if they turn away. The choice is clear. If they follow God’s commands, life in the new land will be good. This reading reminds us that faith is not just about belief, but also about how we live.

4th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

A Promise of a New Prophet

In Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Moses tells the people that God will send another prophet like him. This prophet will speak God’s words. The people must listen to him. God made this promise because the people were afraid to hear God directly at Mount Sinai.

God warns that any prophet who speaks lies or claims to speak for other gods will be punished. The true prophet will only say what God commands. Catholics believe this promise points to Jesus, who came to teach and lead us. This reading reminds us to listen to those who speak truth from God.

1st Sunday of Lent Year C

Giving Thanks to God

In Deuteronomy 26:4-10, the people are told what to do when they bring their first harvest to the altar. They must offer their crops to God and remember where they came from. Their story begins with a wandering ancestor and leads to freedom from Egypt.

They are to thank God for the land, the food, and the blessings they now enjoy. This act of giving shows trust and gratitude. It reminds us that everything we have comes from God, and we should never forget to give thanks.

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

God’s Word Is Close to You

In Deuteronomy 30:10-14, Moses tells the people that following God is not too hard or far away. They don’t need to search the skies or cross the sea to find God’s word. It is already near, in their hearts and on their lips.

The message is simple: listen to God and do what he says. God’s word is not hidden. It is clear and ready to guide them. This reading reminds us that we can follow God in daily life, with the help of his word and grace.

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Selections from Deuteronomy are also read the weekday Masses:

• Wednesday of the 3rd Week of Lent – Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9: Moses Urges Obedience
• Friday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time I – Deuteronomy 4:32-40: Remember God’s Mighty Acts
• Saturday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time I – Deuteronomy 6:4-13: Loving and Remembering the Lord
• Monday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time I – Deuteronomy 10:12-22: Moses’ Call to Obey God
• Saturday of the 1st Week of Lent – Deuteronomy 26:16-19: Covenant of Commitment
• Thursday after Ash Wednesday –  Deuteronomy 30:15-20: Choice of Life or Death
• Tuesday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time I – Deuteronomy 31:1-8: Moses Encourages Israel and Joshua
• Tuesday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time I – Deuteronomy 32:3-4ab, 7, 8, 9 and 12: The Lord’s People
• Monday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time II – Deuteronomy 32:18-19, 20, 21: You Have Forgotten God
• Monday of the 20th Week in Ordinary Time II – Deuteronomy 32:18-19, 20, 21: You Have Forgotten God
• Tuesday of the 20th Week in Ordinary Time II – Deuteronomy 32:26-27ab, 27cd-28, 30, 35cd-36ab: The Lord’s Justice
• Friday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time II – Deuteronomy 32:35cd-36ab, 39abcd, 41: God Holds the Power of Life and Death
• Wednesday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time I – Deuteronomy 34:1-12: The Death of Moses

Moses Speaks Again

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz explains that Deuteronomy is Moses’ long speech to the people of Israel, given 40 years after they left Egypt. He says these are the children of those who began the desert journey. The first few chapters of Deuteronomy are a summary of what happened in the book of Numbers.

Fr. Mike says Deuteronomy means “second law.” Moses is not giving a new law, but reminding the people of what God already said. Fr. Mike points out that Moses warns the people they won’t always be faithful. But this reminder of the law is a way for them to return to God when they fall.

He also explains that Moses is preparing the people to enter the Promised Land. Fr. Mike says this book is full of lessons, and we will be jumping back and forth between Numbers and Deuteronomy. While Numbers tells the story as it happens, Deuteronomy reflects on it years later. This helps us understand the big picture of Israel’s journey and how God stayed with them.

The Journey in Fast-Forward

In this Bible in a Year Podcast episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz explains that Deuteronomy chapter 2 gives a quick summary of the 38 years in the wilderness.

He points out that Moses sums it up in just a few verses. Fr. Mike says this is very different from the book of Numbers, which tells the same story with more detail.

Fr. Mike says Moses reminds the people not to fight with the Edomites or the Ammonites. These people come from Esau and Lot, who are part of Israel’s extended family. God gave them their own land, and Israel is told to pass through peacefully. This shows that God is faithful to His promises to others too.

Fr. Mike explains that Moses also tells about a battle with Sihon, king of the Amorites. He says this is a shift in the story. Until now, they had peace, but now they face violence. Fr. Mike admits this can be hard for us to understand and encourages listeners to be patient.

Levites Set Apart

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Deuteronomy chapter 3. He explains that the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh were given land before crossing the Jordan. But even though the land was theirs, they were told to keep moving with the rest of Israel. They had to help their brothers before settling down.

Fr. Mike points out that this shows how we sometimes receive blessings, but still have more work to do. Just like those tribes, we may need to keep serving even when we feel ready to rest.

He also talks about Moses asking God to let him enter the Promised Land. God says no. Because of a past mistake, Moses is only allowed to see the land from a mountain. Fr. Mike reminds us that leaders are held to a higher standard.

Even so, God still loved Moses. Fr. Mike says this reminds us that God may say no, but His love stays the same. It’s a hard truth, but also full of hope.

Hold Fast and Don’t Forget

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Deuteronomy chapter 4. He says Moses tells the people to obey God’s commands exactly—without adding or removing anything.

Fr. Mike explains that Moses warns them not to make idols. God had already seen their weakness at Mount Sinai and Baal Peor. Fr. Mike says this warning still matters today, since our hearts can chase false things too.

He points out that Moses reminds them to remember what God has done and to teach it to their children. God’s law is meant to shape their lives and help them stay close to Him.

Fr. Mike says even if the people fall away, they can return to God if they seek Him with all their heart. God stays faithful and keeps His promises.

Hearing God’s Voice Again

Fr. Mike Schmitz explains that Deuteronomy 5 is about Moses reminding the people of the Ten Commandments. He says this moment happens after years in the wilderness. Moses is talking to the next generation, not the ones who first left Egypt.

Fr. Mike points out that God spoke to the people at Mount Horeb. The people were afraid, so they asked Moses to speak to God for them. Fr. Mike says the phrase “face to face” means God spoke in a close and personal way, not that they saw His full glory.

Fr. Mike also talks about the command not to make images. He says some people think Catholics break this command. But he explains that the Church teaches it’s wrong to make images to worship, not to use them to remember holy things.

He shares that God even told people to make images in the Old Testament. Fr. Mike says images help us understand truths, just like words do. They remind us of God’s love and His work in our lives.

Loving God with Everything

Fr. Mike Schmitz shares that Deuteronomy 6 contains the Shema, one of the most important prayers in Jewish life. “Hear, O Israel” means more than just listening. It means to listen and obey. Fr. Mike explains this is about loving God with all your heart, soul, and strength.

He says this command reminds the people that there is only one true God. They are coming from Egypt and going into Canaan, where many gods were worshipped. This command helps them remember who God is and what He has done.

Fr. Mike points out that rules come from relationship. God gave His people commandments because He loves them and saved them. Following the rules means remembering that love and trusting Him.

He also talks about physical ways people remember God’s words, like phylacteries and mezuzahs. Catholics do something similar at Mass by marking their foreheads, lips, and hearts before the Gospel. Fr. Mike says this helps keep God’s word close.

Chosen for a Purpose

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy chapter 7. He says this chapter is hard to read because God tells the people to show no mercy to the nations they will face in the Promised Land.

Fr. Mike explains that this is not about being better than others. God loves Israel, but they are not chosen because they are the strongest or biggest. They are chosen so that the world can be blessed through them.

He says the danger is that the people might want to be like the nations around them. They might forget God’s love and let go of their faith. That would stop God’s plan.

Fr. Mike reminds us that this is about staying faithful. God has a big plan, but Israel must stay different. That is how the blessing will reach the world. God is playing the long game, and faithfulness matters.

Don’t Forget God

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy chapter 8. He reminds us that Moses is giving his final message before the people enter the Promised Land.

Fr. Mike says Moses tells the people to remember how God led them for 40 years. God let them struggle to test their hearts and teach them to trust him.

He warns that once the people are blessed and have plenty, they might forget God. They could think they did it all by themselves.

Fr. Mike says this is a danger for us too. It’s easy to forget God when life is going well. But we must remember that everything we have comes from him.

God’s Mercy in Our Failures

In this Bible in a Year Podcast episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Deuteronomy chapter 9. He explains that Moses is reminding the people how they failed after God saved them. Even though they were stubborn, God still showed mercy.

Fr. Mike points out how Moses had to pray for the people. He acted as a go-between, asking God not to destroy them. This shows how much they needed help.

He says this reminds us of Jesus. Like Moses, Jesus stands in the gap for us. He prays for us and offers mercy when we mess up.

Fr. Mike tells us we need to pray for one another too. God’s mercy is strong, even when we fail. That’s part of the message of Deuteronomy 9.

God Has Set His Heart on You

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy chapter 10. He says Moses is giving a review of the journey in the desert. Part of that is the second set of stone tablets with the Ten Commandments.

Fr. Mike explains that the law is not about rules first. It begins with love. God gave the commandments because He had already chosen the people and loved them.

He says the key line in this chapter is that “God set His heart in love upon you.” This was true for Israel, and it is true for us now. We follow God’s ways because He loved us first.

Fr. Mike reminds us that we are part of this story. Through Israel, God has reached the whole world. We are here today, praying and listening, because God still chooses to love us.

Remember What God Has Done

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy chapter 11. He says Moses is reminding the people not to forget what God has done for them.

Fr. Mike points out that they are about to enter a good land. But they will be tempted to forget who they are and who God is.

He explains how the Jewish people use reminders like scripture on their doorposts and arms. These help them remember God’s word and His care.

Fr. Mike says we need reminders too. That’s why we wear crosses, hang crucifixes, and read Scripture. We must not forget God in good times or hard times.

One Place to Worship

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy chapter 12. He explains that Moses gives the people clear instructions for worship when they enter the land. They must destroy all pagan shrines and not follow the ways of other nations.

Fr. Mike says worship won’t be done just anywhere. God will pick one place for worship. That is where the sacrifices must be made. This shows that worship is not just about personal choice. It has structure and a place chosen by God.

He reminds us that the temple will later become that place. The Levites, especially the priests, will serve there. People can still pray anywhere, but offering sacrifice must follow God’s plan.

Fr. Mike also explains that eating certain meats is connected to worship. Some food rules are not just about food, but about staying true to God. This helps the people stay focused on holy worship.

Chosen to Be Different

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Deuteronomy chapters 13 and 14. He explains that God’s people must live differently. This includes how they worship, eat, and even how they mourn. These rules are not random—they help set Israel apart from the nations around them.

Fr. Mike highlights that worship is a key part of this. God warns the people not to follow false prophets or be drawn into worshiping other gods. Even if the person inviting them is close family, they must stay faithful to the Lord.

He also talks about the food laws. Some animals are allowed, and others are not. These rules reminded the people that they were holy and set apart. The laws shaped how they lived every day.

Fr. Mike says these commands show God’s care. The tithe helped support the Levites, the poor, and the widows. Holiness includes compassion.

Worship and Justice Go Together

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy chapters 15 and 16. He says these chapters show how God wants His people to care for others, especially the poor.

Fr. Mike explains that every seventh year is a special year. Debts are forgiven and servants are set free. He says the people are told not to give grudgingly but with an open hand.

He also talks about the three big feasts in chapter 16. These are Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Booths. Fr. Mike says these help the people remember and worship God.

He reminds us that worship and justice belong together. We are called to love God and care for people at the same time.

Give God Your Best

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy chapters 17 and 18. He says these chapters show that worship must be done with care. We are told not to give broken or flawed offerings. God deserves our best.

He explains that justice is also important. If someone worships false gods, there must be two or three witnesses. The first witness must throw the first stone. This makes false charges less likely and shows how serious these choices are.

Fr. Mike also points out that kings must follow God’s law. A king must not take too many wives, collect wealth, or build his own power. He should read God’s law every day to stay faithful. This is a warning that even leaders can fall away, like Solomon did.

At the end, Fr. Mike highlights the promise of a future prophet like Moses. He says this is a sign of Jesus, who speaks God’s word and leads us still today.

Justice, Refuge, and Hard Questions

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares thoughts on Deuteronomy chapters 19 and 20. He explains that cities of refuge were places to protect people who accidentally killed someone. These cities helped stop revenge and made space for fair trials.

Fr. Mike says that justice must be based on truth, not anger. If someone kills on purpose, the law requires proof from two or three witnesses. Then the guilty person faces judgment. This helps the people move from revenge to real justice.

In Deuteronomy 20, Fr. Mike explains the hard parts about war. He says some battles were “wars of judgment.” God used Israel to bring judgment on people who lived in evil ways, like killing their own children. These stories can be hard, but God’s justice has a bigger purpose.

Fr. Mike reminds us that God wants to protect faith. If Israel mixed with these nations, they would turn away. God’s plan was to keep their hearts faithful for the sake of the world.

God’s Justice in a Broken World

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares thoughts on Deuteronomy chapter 21. He says the laws may sound harsh, but they were meant to limit violence in a broken world. They were a step forward in mercy and fairness.

Fr. Mike talks about the law on captive women. He explains that the woman was to be treated with care, not as property. God’s word told the people to treat her like family.

He also explains the law about the firstborn son. Even if the father loves one wife more than the other, he must give the right of the firstborn to the oldest son. Feelings don’t change the law.

Fr. Mike ends with the line “cursed is anyone who hangs on a tree.” He says this points to Jesus. St. Paul later connects it to the cross. Jesus took the curse so we could be free. Fr. Mike says this shows God’s mercy in the middle of hard rules.

Kindness and Dignity in the Laws

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy chapter 22. He explains that these laws were given to help people live with kindness and fairness in a hard world.

Fr. Mike says God wants His people to help one another. If someone sees a lost animal or a neighbor in need, they must offer help. Even small things like building a guardrail on a roof show care for others.

He also explains that the laws about clothing and animals show respect for order and creation. Letting a mother bird go, for example, is a small act of mercy.

Fr. Mike spends time on the laws about marriage and purity. He says these laws were written to protect women in a time when they were often treated unfairly. God’s laws reminded the people that women were not objects—they had worth and should be treated with justice.

A Holy Camp and Honest Promises

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz briefly talks about Deuteronomy chapter 23. He highlights how God wanted His people to be set apart and live with respect and care.

Fr. Mike notes that some people were not allowed in the assembly. This was tied to past actions, like refusing help or trying to curse Israel. Still, others like the Edomites and Egyptians were treated with more kindness.

He also points out the laws about keeping the camp clean. These laws reminded the people that God was with them, even in daily life. The camp had to stay holy because God walked among them.

Fr. Mike mentions the importance of keeping promises to God. If someone made a vow, they had to follow through. Speaking with honesty and following through matters to God.

Everyday Rules with a Deeper Purpose

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares thoughts on Deuteronomy chapters 24 and 25. He says these chapters show how God’s laws help keep order and protect people in daily life.

Fr. Mike compares the laws to making rules for a game. Some rules may seem strange at first, but they often come from real problems people faced. The goal is fairness and care for others.

He highlights a law that says farmers should leave some crops behind for the poor. This shows God’s concern for strangers, widows, and orphans. Even small acts of mercy are included in the law.

Fr. Mike also points out how the law shows kindness, even to animals. For example, an ox must be allowed to eat while working. These laws may seem random, but they teach love, fairness, and respect in simple ways.

Giving with a Grateful Heart

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Deuteronomy 26. He explains how God asks the people to give their first fruits. This means giving the best of what they have to honor the Lord.

Fr. Mike points out that these gifts are also meant to help others. The tithe is shared with the poor, the stranger, the widow, and the orphan. God calls His people to take care of each other.

He says we should not wait for the government to care for the poor. God asks each of us to help those in need. Giving is not just a rule. It’s a way to worship and love others.

Fr. Mike encourages listeners to ask God for guidance. He says we should let God speak to our hearts—whether we need to be challenged or encouraged. Giving should come from love and trust in the Lord.

Stone, Sacrifice, and Saying Amen

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy 27. He says the people are told to set up stones and write God’s law on them. These stones are a sign that the people belong to God.

Fr. Mike explains that the altar built on Mount Ebal is made with plain stones. No tools are used. This reminds the people to worship simply and truly.

He also points out how the people agree to God’s law by saying “Amen” after each curse. This shows they are taking the covenant seriously.

Fr. Mike reminds us that obeying God is part of loving Him. The people are called to listen, obey, and follow His ways as they enter the land.

Blessings, Curses, and the Choice to Follow

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy 28. He says this chapter is full of blessings for those who follow God and curses for those who do not.

He reminds us that the blessings may not come right away. The same is true for the curses. But over time, our choices bring results.

Fr. Mike says this shows us that God is just. He gives people what they choose. If we choose to follow Him, He blesses us. If we turn away, we face the cost.

You Belong to God

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy 29. He explains that Moses is renewing the covenant with the people of Israel before they enter the promised land.

Fr. Mike says this moment matters because the people are tempted to follow other gods. Moses warns them not to turn away. They must stay faithful.

Fr. Mike reminds us that we are not like everyone else. Not because we’re better, but because we belong to God. That identity shapes how we live.

He also says that God gave these laws knowing we live in a broken world. The covenant is a gift to guide us, even when we struggle.

Choose Life and Come Back

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how Deuteronomy 30 is full of hope. God tells the people that if they return to Him, He will welcome them back.

Fr. Mike points out that God promises to gather His people, even from far away. He will bless them again if they love Him and follow His ways.

Fr. Mike highlights how God says the command is not too hard. It is close—right in their hearts. They can live it out. God wants them to choose life.

He says this shows God’s true desire. God does not want destruction. He wants His people to live and be close to Him. Fr. Mike reminds us that this message is for us too.

God Fights for You, Even When You Fall

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares thoughts on Deuteronomy 31. He talks about how Moses passes leadership to Joshua. Moses tells the people to be strong and brave.

Fr. Mike says we can be brave too—not because we are strong, but because God is with us. God promises to stay close, even when things are hard.

Fr. Mike also explains that God knows the people will turn away. He still chooses to fight for them and bless them. God’s love stays strong, even when we are weak.

He reminds us that we do the same today. We forget God when life is easy. But God remains faithful. Fr. Mike says to trust God, return to Him, and let His love lift us up.

When You Choose Other Gods

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy 32 and the Song of Moses. He says it’s a strong warning from God, given through Moses, that the people will turn away and follow other gods.

Fr. Mike explains that God will let them have what they choose. If they want other gods, He won’t stop them. But those gods will fail them, and they will suffer.

He says this shows how God loves His people. Like a faithful spouse, God is hurt when we give our hearts to others. But even when we are faithless, God stays faithful.

Fr. Mike reminds us that God may let us feel the pain of our bad choices, not to hurt us, but to bring us back. God never leaves us, even when we walk away.

Blessings Before Goodbye

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Deuteronomy 33. He explains that this chapter is Moses’ final blessing before his death.

Fr. Mike notes that some tribes get strong blessings, like Joseph and Judah. Others, like Reuben, get a short one. Reuben’s blessing is simply that he may live and not die.

He points out that the blessings show something about each tribe. They reflect how each tribe lived and what God planned for them.

Fr. Mike reminds us that this is the end of Moses’ leadership. These blessings are part of his goodbye to the people he has led for many years.

The Death of Moses and the End of a Journey

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Deuteronomy 34. He talks about the death of Moses as a key moment in the story of Israel.

Fr. Mike notes how God lets Moses see the promised land from a distance, but not enter it. He reminds us that Moses still stayed faithful, even though he would not cross over.

He points out that Moses dies at 120 years old, full of strength and clarity. The people mourn him for 30 days, and Joshua becomes the new leader.

Fr. Mike says no prophet in Israel was like Moses. Moses knew the Lord face to face. His life was full of signs, wonders, and service to God’s people.

The Bible

Want to learn more about the Bible and how it guides our faith? Check out this helpful page at Young Catholics. It talks about how the Bible is used in prayer and worship. It also shows how it speaks to different parts of life.

If you want to grow in your own reading of Scripture, this resource is a great place to start. It explains the books of the Bible in simple ways. It will help you feel more confident in reading God’s word each day. Here’s the link to get you started.

Who wrote Deuteronomy?

The book says Moses spoke the words in it. Many believe he wrote most of it. Some parts may have been added later, like the story of his death.

Why is Deuteronomy important for Catholics?

Deuteronomy teaches us to love God and obey his commandments. Jesus quoted it often. It helps us understand how to live in a way that pleases God.

What does “Deuteronomy” mean?

It means “second law.” The book repeats many laws given earlier, but it also explains them and helps people understand them better.

What is the Shema?

The Shema is a prayer from Deuteronomy 6:4-5. It says to love God with all your heart, soul, and strength. Jesus said this is the greatest commandment.

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible. It tells the story of Moses speaking to the people of Israel before they enter the Promised Land. Moses reminds them of their journey and the lessons they learned. He wants them to stay faithful to God in the new land.

This book repeats many of the laws given earlier, but it also explains why they matter. Moses calls the people to love God with all their heart, soul, and strength. He tells them to teach their children, care for the poor, and avoid false gods.

Deuteronomy teaches that following God brings life and blessing. It is about choosing what is right, even when it is hard. The book ends with Moses’ final words and his death. Then Joshua becomes the new leader.

Catholics still hear this book in Mass today. Its message is simple: love God, keep his commandments, and live with kindness and justice.

Have you read Deuteronomy before? Take some time this week to read a few chapters. Try starting with chapter 6. That’s where the Shema is found—the same words Jesus called the greatest commandment.

Let us know what stood out to you. Did something feel familiar or new? Share your thoughts in the comments. We’d love to hear how Deuteronomy speaks to you today.