The Book of Numbers

The Book of Numbers is the fourth book in the Bible. It is part of the Old Testament and belongs to the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible. The name “Numbers” comes from the counting of the people of Israel. Two major censuses are found in this book, one at the beginning and one near the end. These numbers help tell the story of the Israelites’ journey through the desert.

This book picks up where Exodus left off. The people of Israel have left Egypt and are on their way to the land God promised them. But the journey is not easy. They travel through the wilderness for many years. During this time, they face many challenges. Some of these come from the outside, like enemies. Others come from inside their own camp, like complaining and disobedience.

Numbers includes many stories about the people’s struggles. It shows how they often failed to trust God. There are times when they turn away and complain. Because of this, they do not enter the promised land right away. Instead, they wander in the desert for forty years. Most of the older generation dies before the journey ends. Their children are the ones who will go into the new land.

Even though the book is full of hard lessons, it also shows God’s care. He gives them food. He gives them leaders. He gives them laws to help them live well together. The Book of Numbers helps us understand how God stayed with His people, even when they made mistakes. It prepares the way for the next part of the story, as the Israelites get ready to enter the promised land.

The Book of Numbers was written a long time ago, over 3,000 years in the past. It tells the story of the Israelites during their time in the desert. This happened after they left Egypt but before they reached the land God had promised them. Most of the events take place during a 40-year period. It begins at Mount Sinai and ends near the Jordan River, just before they enter Canaan.

The book is part of the first five books of the Bible. These are sometimes called the books of Moses. Many people believe that Moses wrote much of Numbers. He was the leader of the Israelites during this time. He also received God’s laws and helped guide the people through their journey in the wilderness.

Even if others helped write or collect parts of the book, the main voice is centered around Moses. He tells the story from the point of view of someone who was there. He knew the people, the places, and the problems they faced. The book includes his speeches, stories, and laws that were given during that time.

The setting of the book is very important. The Israelites are not yet in their new land. They are travelers living in tents. They are learning to trust God and follow His ways. The book shows what life was like during this long and difficult trip. It helps us understand why the journey took so long and what the people learned along the way.

The Book of Numbers is written in many different ways. Some parts tell stories. Other parts are lists or rules. This mix of styles helps tell the full story of the Israelites in the desert. It shows what they did, what they learned, and how they were supposed to live.

The stories are easy to follow. They tell about real people who had struggles and made mistakes. There are battles, arguments, and miracles. These stories help us understand how the people felt and what they went through during their journey.

There are also lists of names, tribes, and numbers. These may seem boring at first, but they help keep track of who was part of the group. They also show how the people were organized. These lists help us see how big the group was and how they moved together.

The book also includes laws and commands. These rules helped the people live in peace. They told them how to act toward God and toward each other. Even though the rules were given a long time ago, they still help us see what was important to God’s people back then. The mix of styles makes the book rich and full of meaning.

The Book of Numbers has many themes that connect to Catholic teaching. These themes help us think about faith, obedience, and how we follow God even when life is hard.

One big theme is trust in God. The people in Numbers often lost trust. They complained and doubted. Because of this, they had to spend many years in the desert. Catholics are reminded to trust God, even when things don’t go as planned.

Another theme is leadership. Moses is a good example of someone who led with patience. But even he struggled at times. Catholic leaders today can learn from both his strengths and mistakes. God chose leaders to guide the people, just like He does in the Church today.

Here are a few other themes found in Numbers:

• God’s presence stays with His people
• Sin brings real consequences
• Obedience leads to blessings
• The journey matters, not just the end

These themes remind us that faith is a daily walk. Even when we wander, God does not give up on us. The Church sees this book as part of the bigger story that points toward Jesus, who leads us to the true promised land.

The Book of Numbers has four main parts. These sections follow the journey of the Israelites from Mount Sinai to the edge of the promised land. Each part shows a different stage in their travel and their relationship with God.

• At Mount Sinai (Numbers 1:1–10:10)
  This section starts with a census. It lists all the tribes and their numbers. It also gives rules for the camp and the work of the Levites. The people are getting ready to leave Mount Sinai.
• Traveling and Complaining (Numbers 10:11–20:13)
  The people begin to move through the desert. Along the way, they complain and rebel. They face hard times. God stays with them but also punishes their lack of trust. This section includes many important stories, like the sending of the twelve spies.
• New Generations and New Laws (Numbers 20:14–25:18)
  The older generation is dying out. A new group of Israelites is growing up. God gives them more instructions. There are new battles and more lessons about faith and obedience.
• Getting Ready for the Promised Land (Numbers 26:1–36:13)
  Another census is taken. This one shows who is left and who will enter the new land. The people receive final laws and instructions. They are now near the Jordan River, ready for the next step.

Each part helps tell the full story of the journey. It shows how the people changed and how God stayed close to them, even when they failed.

Even though the Book of Numbers was written long ago, it still matters today. It shows what can happen when people lose trust in God. It also shows how God stays close, even when people make mistakes. These lessons are just as true for us now.

Many people today feel like they are wandering, unsure of what comes next. The Israelites went through the same thing. Their story reminds us to be patient and keep going, even when things are hard. God was with them in the desert, and He is with us now.

The book also reminds us how important it is to listen to good leaders and follow rules that help us live well together. The Church uses this story to teach us how to stay faithful, especially when life gets tough.

Numbers also helps us look ahead. Just like the people were heading toward a new home, we are also on a journey. Our goal is heaven, and we can learn from their story as we walk the path of faith.

The Book of Numbers is not read as often at Mass as some other books. But when it does appear, the readings are full of meaning. They help us think about trust, leadership, and God’s care for His people.

One well-known reading comes from Numbers 6:22–27. This passage includes a blessing that priests gave to the people. It says, “The Lord bless you and keep you…” Many Catholics recognize these words. This reading is often used on special feast days and at the start of the new year.

Another reading is from Numbers 21:4–9. It tells the story of the bronze serpent. The people sinned, and snakes came into the camp. When they turned back to God, Moses lifted up a bronze serpent, and those who looked at it were healed. This relates to Jesus on the cross.

These readings remind us that God cares for His people, even when they fail. They also show how the Old Testament points forward to Jesus. When we hear these passages at Mass, we are invited to keep trusting and keep walking in faith.

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

Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God

A Blessing for the People

In Numbers 6:22-27, God tells Moses to have Aaron and the priests bless the people. This special blessing is meant to bring peace, protection, and guidance. It shows that God wants to stay close to His people and care for them. The blessing also reminds the people that they belong to God.

This short passage is a prayer of hope and trust. It helps us remember that God’s care is not just for the past, but for today too. When we hear these words, we are reminded that we are never alone.

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

God’s Spirit for All

In Numbers 11:25-29, God shares His spirit with seventy elders to help Moses lead the people. Two of them, Eldad and Medad, begin to prophesy even though they were not with the others. Some think this is a problem, but Moses says it is a good thing.

Moses wishes that all people could receive God’s spirit. He knows that leadership is hard and should be shared. This moment reminds us that God can work through anyone, not just those in special places. It also shows that God’s help is not limited to one group.

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Looking Up for Healing

In Numbers 21:4b-9, the Israelites grow tired and complain during their journey. They speak against God and Moses. Because of this, snakes appear and begin to bite the people. Many get sick and die.

The people admit they were wrong and ask Moses to pray for them. God tells Moses to make a bronze snake and lift it on a pole. Anyone who looks at it is healed. This story shows that even when people sin, God still offers a way to be saved. It also points to the cross of Jesus Christ.

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

• Monday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time I – Numbers 11:4b-15: The Complaint of the Israelites
• Tuesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time I – Numbers 12:1-13: The LORD Defends Moses
• Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time – Numbers 13:1-2, 25–14:1, 26a-29a, 34-35: The Spies and Their Report
• Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time I – Numbers 20:1-13: Water from the Rock at Meribah
• Tuesday of the 5th Week of Lent – Numbers 21:4-9: The Bronze Serpent and the People’s Repentance
• Monday of the 3rd Week of Advent – Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17a: Balaam’s Vision

God at the Center

In this episode of The Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 1.

He says this chapter is a census. It lists how many men were ready for battle—about 600,000. That means maybe two million people were in the desert with Moses.

Fr. Mike explains why this is important. God knows each person. The counting shows God’s care. It also shows how the camp was set up. God’s presence in the tabernacle was in the center. The tribe of Levi stayed closest to God. The other tribes camped around them.

Fr. Mike reminds us that the tabernacle points to Jesus in the Eucharist. Just like God was in the middle of the camp, Jesus wants to be at the center of our lives.

Let Praise Go Up First

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 2.

He explains how the tribes of Israel camped around the tabernacle. God’s presence was in the center. The Levites stayed closest to the tabernacle. The other tribes camped on all sides. Judah was placed first, on the east side. Judah also led the march.

Fr. Mike points out that Judah means “praise.” So when they moved, praise went first. He says we should do the same—let praise go up first each day.

He also says this setup gave the people identity and order. They were once slaves. Now God was teaching them how to live as free people, with Him at the center.

Levites Set Apart

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz gives a short teaching on Numbers chapter 3.

He explains that the tribe of Levi was chosen for special service in the tabernacle. But not all Levites were priests. Only the sons of Aaron were priests.

The rest of the Levites had other jobs. Some cared for the tent, others for the holy objects, and others for the structure. Each family group had its own task.

Fr. Mike reminds us: all priests were Levites, but not all Levites were priests. God gave each group a role, and they worked together to serve Him.

Each Has a Job

In this Bible in a Year Podcast episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 4.

He explains how each group in the tribe of Levi had a job. The Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites all had different tasks for carrying the tabernacle. Only the priests—Aaron’s sons—could touch the holy things. The others had to carry the items with poles or coverings.

Fr. Mike says this shows that God gave each person a task. Everyone had a part to play. He reminds us that our lives matter too. God gives each of us a job to do.

He connects this to St. Paul, who said we are one body with many parts. Even if a job seems small, it still matters to God.

Jealousy and Justice

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 5.

He explains how the chapter deals with unclean people, making things right after sin, and the strange test for an unfaithful wife. He says this part might sound harsh to us today, but it was a step forward for its time.

In ancient cultures, a man could punish his wife however he wanted. But in Numbers 5, God gives a new rule. The man must take his wife to a priest. He cannot act on his own. Fr. Mike says this shows that both the man and the woman are under God’s law.

The strange water test sounds unfair, but Fr. Mike points out that it protected the woman. A miracle had to happen to prove guilt. Most would just drink the water and be fine. This helped guard against jealousy and false judgment.

Set Apart for God: The Nazarite Vow

In this Bible in a Year Podcast episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 6.

He explains the Nazarite vow. It was a way for someone to give a special time to God. During this time, they would not drink wine, cut their hair, or go near a dead body. Most vows were temporary, like for a few weeks. But some people, like Samson and John the Baptist, had this vow for life.

Fr. Mike says this vow was like going on retreat. You step back from normal things to focus on God. At the end of the vow, you would offer sacrifices and even cut off your hair and burn it on the altar. This was a sign that the whole time was given to God.

He also talks about the priestly blessing at the end of the chapter. It says, “The Lord bless you and keep you…” Fr. Mike invites fathers to pray this over their children. He reminds us that this blessing shows God’s love and care for His people.

Equal Gifts and Holy Work

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 7.

He points out that the chapter is long and very repetitive. Each tribe gives the same offering for the dedication of the tabernacle. Fr. Mike says this shows humility. No tribe tried to stand out. They all gave what God asked.

He also explains that this event in chapter 7 actually happened earlier than some other parts of Numbers. It was before the worship in the tabernacle began.

Fr. Mike highlights one special group—the sons of Kohath. Unlike other Levites, they were not given carts or oxen. That’s because they carried the holiest objects, like the ark. These were not to be pulled by animals. They had to be carried by hand. Fr. Mike says this reminds us that some things are set apart and very special.

Stay or Go: Trusting God

In this Bible in a Year Podcast episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapters 8 and 9.

He explains that chapter 9 happens just 13 months after the Israelites left Egypt. They are still learning how to live in freedom and how to worship God. Fr. Mike points out how God gives clear rules about celebrating the Passover. Even people who are unclean or far away still need to celebrate it. This shows how important it is.

Fr. Mike connects this to the Eucharist. He says that just like the Passover was required, worshiping God in the Mass is not something we should skip without a serious reason.

He also talks about the cloud and fire in chapter 9. The Israelites followed the cloud when it moved and stayed put when it stayed. Fr. Mike says this is a picture of trusting God. We should move when God says go, and stay when God says wait.

Trumpets and Trust: The Journey Begins

In this Bible in a Year Podcast episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 10.

He explains that this is the start of the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness. They are finally moving after staying at Mount Sinai for almost two years. Fr. Mike points out that the tribes are organized and travel in a set order. The tribe of Judah leads the way. He reminds us that Judah means “praise,” and so they lead with praise.

Fr. Mike also says that even while they travel, God is at the center. The tabernacle stays in the middle of the camp. This shows that worship and God’s presence stay with them, no matter where they go.

He also mentions the silver trumpets. These were used to gather the people and signal when to move. It was all part of trusting and following God’s lead. Fr. Mike reminds us that when God moves, we move—and when He stays, we stay.

Craving, Complaining, and God’s Help

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 11.

He explains that the people of Israel complained again. But this time, it wasn’t just sadness or asking for help. It was rebellion. They missed the food from Egypt and said they wanted to go back—even though they had been slaves. Fr. Mike points out how easy it is to forget freedom when we want comfort.

Moses felt overwhelmed by the people’s cries. He asked God for help. God told him to gather 70 elders. God gave them the Spirit to help Moses lead. Fr. Mike says this shows how God shares His work with others.

Fr. Mike also highlights how Moses wished that all God’s people had the Spirit. He reminds us that through baptism, we are all called to live as prophets and share God’s message.

Even when we complain, God still offers help. He stays with His people.

Family Trouble and Fearful Spies

In this Bible in a Year Podcast episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapters 12 and 13.

He explains how Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the woman he married. Fr. Mike says this was like a family argument. Miriam was punished with leprosy, but Moses prayed for her healing. This moment brought the siblings back together in prayer.

Fr. Mike also talks about the spies sent into the land of Canaan. God had promised it would be a good land, but most of the spies were afraid. They saw strong people and big cities and lost trust. Only Caleb said they should go and take the land.

Fr. Mike points out that the people forgot how God had saved them before. They were free, but they still acted like slaves. They didn’t trust that God would help them again.

Fear, Rebellion, and the Cost of Refusing to Trust

In this Bible in a Year Podcast episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 14.

He explains how the people of Israel reacted with fear after hearing the report from the spies. They wanted to go back to Egypt and even tried to choose a new leader. Fr. Mike says this shows how the people still thought like slaves. They were too afraid to trust God.

God was ready to give them the land, but they didn’t believe he would help them. Only Caleb and Joshua trusted God. Because of this, God said the older generation would not enter the promised land. Their children would go in instead.

Fr. Mike reminds us that if we don’t face our battles, the next generation will. He calls us to be brave and fight what holds us back. That way, our children won’t have to fight the same battles.

Why the Laws Matter

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 15. He explains that this chapter repeats many of the offerings and laws we first heard in Leviticus. These rules are part of God reminding his people how to live as they begin their long journey in the wilderness.

Fr. Mike says some parts of the chapter are hard to hear, especially the punishment for a man who picks up sticks on the Sabbath. The man is put to death. Fr. Mike helps us understand this by saying the law made a difference between sins done by accident and sins done on purpose. If someone sinned by mistake, there was a way to be forgiven. But if someone sinned on purpose and rebelled, they were choosing to leave God’s people.

He reminds us that God had a plan to bless the world through Israel. Because of that, Israel had to live differently. Their worship, their behavior, and even what they wore and ate needed to show they belonged to God.

At the end, Fr. Mike explains the tassels with a blue cord. They were a way to help people remember God’s commands. The blue reminded them of the temple and of God’s holiness.

Jealousy, Rebellion, and God’s Justice

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers chapter 16. He explains how Korah, Dathan, and Abiram lead a rebellion against Moses and Aaron. These men are Levites, and Korah’s group already has an important role in worship. But they are jealous. They want the priesthood too.

Fr. Mike points out that Moses responds by falling on his face. That means he prays first. Even when attacked unfairly, Moses turns to God. Then he sets up a test. Everyone brings incense before the Lord. God shows who He has chosen by making the earth open and swallow the rebels.

Fr. Mike says this story shows God’s justice. Only the sons of Aaron were chosen to offer sacrifices. When others try to take that role, they are acting against God. Even after this, the people still complain. A plague starts, but Aaron runs and offers incense to stop it. He stands between the living and the dead.

Fr. Mike reminds us that rebellion often comes from pride or jealousy. And sometimes we look back at our old life, even if it was full of sin, and think it was better. But God is leading us to true freedom, even when the path is hard.

Aaron’s Rod Blossoms: God Confirms His Choice

In this episode of The Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Numbers 17.

Fr. Mike explains how the people were still complaining after the rebellions in earlier chapters. God tells Moses to collect twelve staffs, one from each tribe. Aaron’s name goes on the staff for the tribe of Levi. All the staffs are placed in the tent of meeting.

The next day, only Aaron’s staff has budded, bloomed, and produced almonds. This was God’s clear sign: Aaron and his family were the ones chosen to serve as priests. No one else should take that role.

Fr. Mike points out that this chapter shows how God settles the people’s doubts. He hopes this sign would stop the complaints. But, as he says with a bit of humor, probably not for long.

God Is Their Inheritance: The Levites’ Special Role

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares some thoughts on Numbers 18.

He explains that the Levites were not given land like the other tribes. Instead, their job was to serve the Lord in worship. Their work was in the tabernacle, offering sacrifices and caring for the holy place. God said, “I am your portion,” meaning that He would take care of them in a special way.

Fr. Mike points out that the Levites lived off the tithes brought by the other tribes. The people’s offerings helped support their work. But even the Levites had to give a tithe from what they received. Everyone had to give back to God, no matter what their role was.

Water, Ashes, and a Serious Mistake

Fr. Mike Schmitz explains that Numbers 19 is about the red heifer ceremony. It shows how people who were unclean could be made clean again. He points out the use of hyssop in this ritual and connects it to Jesus on the cross, where hyssop was used to lift wine to him. This shows a link between the Old Testament rituals and the sacrifice of Jesus.

In Numbers 20, the people complain about having no water. God tells Moses to speak to the rock, but instead, Moses strikes it twice. Water still comes out, but God tells Moses and Aaron they won’t enter the Promised Land because they didn’t trust him enough to follow his command in front of the people.

Fr. Mike explains that this moment was serious because Moses was supposed to show God’s holiness. Striking the rock instead of speaking made it seem like the miracle came from anger, not trust. He also says that the rock is a symbol of Christ, so Moses striking it had deeper meaning.

Snakes, Battles, and a Bronze Sign of Hope

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers 21. The people complain again, and God sends fiery snakes. Many people die. But when they repent, God tells Moses to make a bronze serpent. Anyone who looks at it is healed. Fr. Mike says this points to Jesus on the cross. The thing that caused pain becomes the sign of healing and hope.

Fr. Mike explains how this connects to our own lives. He says when we look at Jesus on the cross, we see our sin. But we also see the sign of God’s love. Just like the people looked at the bronze snake and were healed, we look to Jesus for healing.

Numbers 21 also tells how Israel defeats two strong kings—Sihon and Og. Fr. Mike says God is leading the people closer to the Promised Land, even though the journey is hard.

A Talking Donkey and a Warning for the Proud

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers 22. He tells the story of Balaam, a man known for spiritual power. Balak, the king of Moab, asks Balaam to curse Israel. At first, Balaam says no, but when offered more money and honor, he agrees to go. God had already made it clear that Israel is blessed.

On the way, Balaam’s donkey sees an angel and stops three times. Balaam gets angry and beats her. Then God allows the donkey to speak. She asks why Balaam is hitting her. Finally, Balaam sees the angel and realizes he was wrong. Fr. Mike says this strange moment shows how pride can blind us. Balaam was so focused on power and rewards that he ignored God’s warning.

Fr. Mike also shares that early Church writers saw Balaam as a warning. He looked spiritual, but his heart was greedy. He said one thing and planned another. Fr. Mike reminds us not to be impressed by power or money. Instead, we should listen to God and stay faithful.

Balaam Tries Again but God Won’t Budge

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers 23. He explains how Balaam keeps trying to curse Israel, but God won’t let him. Instead, Balaam ends up blessing Israel—twice. Balak, the king of Moab, is frustrated, but Balaam says he can only speak what God tells him.

Fr. Mike points out that Balaam seems obedient. He does what God says. But the Bible and the early Church still see him as a bad example. Balaam is not loyal. He’s just doing the job he’s paid for.

Fr. Mike shares a funny line he once read. God spoke through a donkey one day, and now he’s using a bigger donkey—Balaam. Even if Balaam obeys for now, his heart is not in it. Fr. Mike tells us to stay tuned. Something important is coming next.

God’s Blessing vs. Israel’s Sin

Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers 24 and 25. Balaam tries to curse Israel but ends up blessing them four times. He says he can only speak what God tells him to say. God uses Balaam, a man who isn’t faithful, to speak good over Israel. While this is happening, Israel is living on the plains of Moab, getting ready to enter the promised land.

At the same time, the people of Israel are sinning. They start worshiping false gods and turning away from the Lord. They mix with the people of Moab and begin following their ways. This shows a sad contrast. While God is blessing them through Balaam, the people are being unfaithful to God.

Fr. Mike points out the shocking moment in Numbers 25. An Israelite man, Zimri, brings a Midianite woman, Cosbi, into the holy place and sins with her there. Phinehas, the grandson of Aaron, stops them and ends the plague. Fr. Mike explains that this act shows both how serious the sin was and how God values faithfulness.

Counting the Warriors Before the Battle

Fr. Mike Schmitz explains that Numbers 26 is a second census of Israel. The first census happened at the start of their journey. This one comes after 40 years in the wilderness. It shows who is still alive and ready to enter the promised land. Fr. Mike points out that this census is about fighting men. The next step is war.

He notes that some tribes grew and some shrank. But overall, the numbers didn’t change much. The first count was about 603,550. Now it is 601,730. The land will be divided based on tribe size, but the location will be chosen by lot. That way it is fair.

Fr. Mike also highlights the Levites. They will not receive land. Instead, their share is the Lord himself. They are set apart to lead worship and care for holy places. He reminds us that being numbered means being chosen to do something for God.

Land, Leadership, and God’s Justice

In the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers 27 and 28. He explains how the daughters of Zelophehad asked for land after their father died with no sons. God said they were right. Fr. Mike says this shows God’s fairness and how He cares about each family, even in small matters.

Fr. Mike also shares how Joshua is chosen to lead after Moses. Joshua had stayed faithful when others doubted. Moses lays hands on him in front of everyone. Fr. Mike says this moment shows leadership being passed on with care. Joshua will now guide the people into the promised land.

Fr. Mike explains that Joshua’s name, Yeshua, is the same name as Jesus in Hebrew. Just as Joshua led Israel into the land, Jesus leads us into new life. Fr. Mike says this shows how the Old Testament points us to Jesus again and again.

Offerings, Vows, and Life in a Broken World

In the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers 29 and 30. He explains that chapter 29 lists the offerings for the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, and the Feast of Booths. These feasts remind the people to give generously to God, especially the Feast of Booths, which is a time of great abundance and celebration.

Fr. Mike highlights how the Day of Atonement is the only feast where the people are told to “afflict” themselves. It is a time to remember sin and seek forgiveness. He also notes the pattern in the Feast of Booths where the number of bulls offered drops each day. This shows how each day was carefully marked and celebrated in a special way.

In Numbers 30, Fr. Mike explains the laws about making vows. If a man makes a vow, he must keep it. If a woman makes a vow, her father or husband can cancel it. Fr. Mike says this shows the brokenness of the world. These laws were not for a perfect world but to help people live better in a hard one.

Hard Lessons from a Hard Chapter

In the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz explains Numbers 31 by looking back to chapter 25. Israel had fallen into idolatry with the Midianites. They had worshiped false gods and sinned deeply. Now, before entering the promised land, God tells Moses to send Israel into battle against Midian. Fr. Mike says this is about ending the sin that already corrupted them.

Fr. Mike explains that this kind of total destruction is hard to hear. But it was not what God truly wanted. God did not want death. The harsh command came because the people were weak and easily led into sin. If Israel had stayed faithful, this war would not have happened. Fr. Mike reminds us that these moments show us how broken people can become.

He also says that we are just as weak. The real lesson is about our own lives. If something draws us away from God, we must remove it. Fr. Mike says we often tolerate things that pull our hearts from God. Like Israel, we must choose to let go of anything that keeps us from true worship. This chapter is a wake-up call for all of us.

Fighting Together Matters

Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers 32 and how the tribes of Reuben and Gad wanted to stay on the east side of the Jordan because the land was good for cattle. They asked Moses if they could settle there instead of going into the promised land with the others.

Moses warned them that this could hurt the rest of the Israelites. If they didn’t help fight, others might lose courage too. Fr. Mike points out that our choices can affect others, even when we think they won’t. We all belong to one another.

In the end, the tribes agree to help in the battles. They promise to fight with the others before returning to their land. Fr. Mike says this shows how we must each do our part. When we don’t show up, others may stop trying too. We need to be brave, not just for ourselves, but for everyone.

A Road Map Through the Desert

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Numbers 33. He explains how this chapter lists all the places the Israelites traveled during their time in the desert. Each stop is part of the journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Fr. Mike says this list is helpful because it shows the full path of their wandering. If you look at a map, you can trace where they went. This chapter reminds us that God was with them the whole time, through every stop.

He doesn’t go into much detail about each place, but he points out how important it is to remember where we’ve been. Like the Israelites, we all have a story. And even when we feel lost, God is still leading us forward.

A Real Place with Real Boundaries

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares a short reflection on Numbers 34. He points out that this chapter describes the borders of the Promised Land in clear detail. The land is not just a symbol. It is a real, physical place with real lines drawn on a map.

Fr. Mike reminds us that the story of Israel is not a myth. It happened in a specific time and place. The Israelites were real people who lived through slavery, wandering, and then received a home. This makes both Judaism and Christianity rooted in real history.

He says faith is not just about spiritual things. It’s also about our real lives. God works in the middle of time, space, and human history. And just like the land had borders, our journey of faith happens in the middle of our daily lives too.

Justice, Refuge, and Belonging

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Numbers 35 and 36. He explains how the Levites were given 48 cities to live in since they had no land of their own. Six of these were cities of refuge. These cities gave people a safe place to go if they accidentally killed someone. It was a way to offer justice, not just revenge.

Fr. Mike talks about the practical rules God gave for dealing with murder and manslaughter. The law made clear how to tell if something was done with intent or by accident. He also explains why there needed to be more than one witness in serious cases. These rules helped the Israelites avoid unfair punishment and live justly.

He also talks about the daughters of Zelophehad and their right to inherit land. To protect tribal land, they had to marry within their tribe. Fr. Mike says this shows how we are all connected. Our choices affect others. We belong to a bigger family and have duties to one another. We’re not alone—we’re part of a community.

The Bible

If you’re looking to learn more about the Bible and how its books fit together, check out this friendly guide from Young Catholics. It explains the different parts of the Bible—like the Pentateuch, Historical Books, Wisdom, and more—in a simple and clear way. You’ll see why books like Numbers matter and how they help shape our faith journey. See full guide here.

This guide is easy to read and great for people just starting to learn. It offers helpful summaries and ideas for deeper reading. If you want to grow in your understanding of the Bible, this is a useful place to start.

Why is it called Numbers?

It is called Numbers because it includes two censuses. These count the people of Israel at the start and near the end of their journey in the desert.

Who wrote the Book of Numbers?

Many people believe Moses wrote it. He led the Israelites through the desert and shared the laws and stories found in the book.

What is the main message of Numbers?

The book shows how the people often failed to trust God. It also shows that God stayed with them and kept His promise to guide them.

How does Numbers connect to the Catholic faith?

Catholics see it as part of the bigger story that leads to Jesus. The bronze serpent in chapter 21 points forward to the cross. The journey through the desert reminds us of our own walk of faith.

The Book of Numbers tells the story of the Israelites after they leave Mount Sinai. They are headed to the land God promised them, but the journey is long and hard. The people are often afraid, angry, and unsure. They complain and rebel. Because of this, they must spend 40 years in the desert before entering the land.

This book has stories of failure and struggle, but also of God’s care. God does not leave His people. He gives them leaders, food, water, and laws to help them live. He guides them step by step, even when they make mistakes. Numbers shows us what it looks like when people turn away from God—and what happens when they turn back.

Catholics read Numbers as part of the big story that points to Jesus. The bronze serpent lifted by Moses reminds us of the cross. The journey of Israel helps us understand our own journey of faith. Like them, we are learning to trust, follow, and grow.

Take some time to read the Book of Numbers. It may seem like an old story, but it connects with real life today. You’ll see people who make mistakes, but who still have a chance to grow in faith.

After reading, share your thoughts in the comment section. What part stood out to you? Did anything remind you of your own journey? We’d love to hear how this book speaks to you.