The Second Book of Chronicles

The book of 2 Chronicles continues the story of God’s people in the Old Testament. It begins with Solomon becoming king and ends with the people of Judah being taken into exile in Babylon. This book focuses mostly on the kings of Judah, especially those who followed the ways of the Lord. It does not talk much about the kings of Israel in the north.

2 Chronicles gives special attention to the temple in Jerusalem. Solomon builds it, and later kings work to protect or restore it. The temple is the center of worship for God’s people. Many parts of the book show how the people honor God, or fail to do so, through their actions in the temple.

The writer wants to show how important it is to follow God. Good kings like Hezekiah and Josiah lead the people back to the Lord. But when the kings and people turn away, trouble comes. The book shows a clear pattern: when the people are faithful, they do well. When they forget God, they suffer.

This book was likely written after the people returned from exile. It reminds them of their past and calls them to stay faithful. It helps the people remember what went wrong and what went right. 2 Chronicles teaches that true strength and peace come from walking with God.

2 Chronicles was written after the people of Judah came back from exile in Babylon. They had lost their land, their king, and their temple. Now they were starting over. The book helped them remember where they came from. It showed them the mistakes of the past and pointed them toward a better future.

The author is not named in the book. But many people believe it was a priest or teacher. This person cared deeply about the temple and worship. The writer wanted to remind the people of God’s faithfulness and the importance of obeying Him.

This book was part of a larger work that includes 1 Chronicles. Together, these books tell the story of God’s people from King David to the exile. The focus is not just on history but also on worship, prayer, and trust in God.

2 Chronicles helped the people rebuild their identity. It reminded them that they were still God’s people, even after all they had lost. It called them to stay close to the Lord as they began again.

The book of 2 Chronicles is written like a history book, but it tells more than just facts. It uses stories to teach lessons. The writer chooses certain events to show how important it is to follow God. Not every king is mentioned. Only the ones from Judah are included, and some are given more attention than others.

The writer uses simple patterns in the stories. When a king listens to God, things go well. When a king turns away, things fall apart. This makes the message clear and easy to follow. The book shows the ups and downs of each king’s rule.

Worship and the temple come up again and again. Speeches, prayers, and songs are often included. These parts show how the people praised God and asked for help. The writer wants readers to see how worship shapes a nation.

The tone of the book is serious, but also full of hope. It reminds the people of their past but helps them look ahead. The style is careful and thoughtful, using stories to guide the people back to God.

2 Chronicles teaches many lessons that connect with Catholic beliefs. It shows how God stays faithful, even when people make mistakes. It also reminds us that prayer, worship, and repentance matter. Here are some key themes found in the book:

• Faithfulness to God
  Good kings like Hezekiah and Josiah show what happens when leaders trust God. They clean out idols, fix the temple, and bring people back to worship. In Catholic life, we are also called to stay faithful, even when it’s hard.
• The Importance of Worship
  The temple is the heart of the story. Worship, sacrifice, and prayer happen there. Catholics can see this as a reminder of how central the Mass is in our lives. Just like the temple, the Church is a place to meet God.
• Repentance and Mercy
  When kings or people sin, they suffer. But when they turn back to God, He forgives them. This connects with the Catholic teaching of confession. God always gives us a way back through mercy.
• God’s Promise and Patience
  Even when the people are taken into exile, God does not give up on them. He keeps His promise. Catholics believe that God’s plan is always at work, even in hard times.

2 Chronicles helps us see that no matter what happens, God wants us to return to Him. Through worship, prayer, and turning from sin, we stay close to the path He sets for us.

The book of 2 Chronicles has two main parts. Each part focuses on the kings of Judah. The first part tells the story of Solomon. The second part tells about the kings who came after him. Here is how the book is divided:

• Solomon’s Rule (Chapters 1–9)
  These chapters tell how Solomon became king. He asked God for wisdom. He built the temple in Jerusalem. He led the people in worship. His rule was peaceful and full of riches. But later, his heart turned away. The section ends with his death.
• The Kings of Judah (Chapters 10–36)
  This part starts with Solomon’s son, Rehoboam. The kingdom splits, but 2 Chronicles only tells the story of the southern kingdom, Judah. Some kings follow God. Others do not. Kings like Asa, Jehoshaphat, Hezekiah, and Josiah are shown as good leaders. The book ends with Judah being taken into exile, but there is also a small sign of hope when King Cyrus of Persia allows the people to return.

These two parts work together to teach one main message: stay faithful to God. When the people trust and obey, there is peace. When they turn away, there is trouble. The book gives clear examples through the lives of the kings.

2 Chronicles may be an old book, but its lessons still help us today. It shows what happens when people follow God and what happens when they don’t. That’s something we still face in our own lives.

The book reminds us to keep worship and prayer at the center of our lives. Just like the temple was important for the people of Judah, the Church is important for us. It is where we gather, pray, and stay close to God.

We also learn the value of repentance. When we mess up, we can turn back. God is patient and gives us chances to return to Him. That is still true now, especially through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

2 Chronicles tells us that choices matter. Faith, prayer, and obedience lead to peace. Pride, idols, and selfishness lead to trouble. That is a message we can use every day.

The Book of 2 Chronicles continues the story of the kingdom of Judah. Like 1 Chronicles, it does not focus on the northern kingdom of Israel. Instead, it tells about the kings who ruled in Jerusalem, starting with Solomon and ending with the fall of Judah to Babylon.

Here are the kings of Judah mentioned in 2 Chronicles:

• Solomon – Built the temple and ruled with wisdom
• Rehoboam – Solomon’s son; the kingdom split during his reign
• Abijah (Abijam) – Fought against the northern kingdom
• Asa – A good king who removed idols and trusted God
• Jehoshaphat – Brought peace and trusted God in battle
• Jehoram – Married Ahab’s daughter; turned away from God
• Ahaziah – Ruled briefly; followed wicked ways
• Athaliah – Queen who ruled after her son died
• Joash (Jehoash) – Became king as a child; repaired the temple
• Amaziah – Obeyed God at first, then turned to idols
• Azariah (Uzziah) – Strong king who became proud
• Jotham – Followed God and ruled well
• Ahaz – Turned to false gods and closed the temple
• Hezekiah – Brought reform and reopened the temple
• Manasseh – Very sinful at first but later repented
• Amon – Continued in evil ways
• Josiah – Found the Book of the Law and led reform
• Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, and Zedekiah – Last kings before the fall of Jerusalem

2 Chronicles shows the ups and downs of Judah’s history. Some kings were faithful, and others were not. The book reminds us that turning to God brings life, while turning away brings trouble.

The book of 2 Chronicles is not read very often in the Catholic Mass. But when it does appear, the message is strong. One of the most well-known readings is from 2 Chronicles 36:14–16, 19–23.

That reading tells how the people turned away from God. They did not listen to the prophets. Because of this, Jerusalem was destroyed, and the people were taken into exile. But even then, God did not forget them. The reading ends with King Cyrus of Persia letting the people return home.

This passage helps us think about sin and mercy. During Lent, it reminds us to turn back to God. Even when things go wrong, God still invites us to return to Him.

Though it’s a short part of the lectionary, it carries a clear message. God wants His people to listen, return, and rebuild. That message still speaks to us today.

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

4th Sunday of Lent Year B

From Destruction to a New Start

In 2 Chronicles 36:14-16, 19-23, the people of Judah turn away from God. Their leaders ignore His messengers and reject His warnings. Because of this, Jerusalem is destroyed. The temple is burned, and the people are taken into exile in Babylon. It is a time of loss and sadness.

But the story does not end there. God moves the heart of King Cyrus of Persia. He tells the people they can return home and rebuild the temple. Even after failure, there is still hope. God does not give up on His people. He gives them a chance to begin again.

---

A reading from the Second Book of Chronicles is also used in the weekday readings.

• Saturday of the 11th Week in Ordinary Time II – 2 Chronicles 24:17-25: The Downfall of King Joash

Wisdom, but Not Obedience

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapter 1. He points out how Solomon starts his reign with a strong desire to lead well. When God asks Solomon what he wants, Solomon asks for wisdom. God is pleased with this request and gives him both wisdom and riches.

Fr. Mike explains that even though Solomon asks for wisdom, he quickly shows signs of disobedience. He starts to gather horses from Egypt, which is against God’s command in Deuteronomy. This is a small detail, but it shows a bigger problem.

Fr. Mike says that wisdom without obedience can still lead someone in the wrong direction. He reminds us that it’s not enough to be wise, rich, or strong. What matters most is using our gifts the way God wants.

In this part of 2 Chronicles, Fr. Mike warns that Solomon’s disobedience will grow over time. He says this shows us that even great gifts mean little if they are not used for God.

The Temple Begins and a Role of Honor

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz highlights how Solomon begins building the temple in 2 Chronicles chapters 2 and 3. He points out the care and planning Solomon puts into this work. Solomon knows the Lord is greater than all gods, yet still wants to build a house for worship and prayer.

Fr. Mike also notes how Solomon asks the king of Tyre for help. He asks for workers and supplies to build something worthy of God. This shows Solomon’s desire to do things well for the Lord. The temple is meant to be a place of sacrifice and praise.

At the same time, Fr. Mike connects this moment to the bigger picture. He reminds us that Solomon’s role points to Jesus, the true King, and that the temple points to the Church. The building of the temple shows how God’s people honor Him with their best.

Lastly, Fr. Mike uses this part of 2 Chronicles to explain the honor given to Mary. Just as Solomon honored his mother, the queen, Jesus honors His mother. Mary is not worshipped, but she is respected, like the queen mother in the kingdom of Israel.

Solomon’s Greatest Task

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz says that 2 Chronicles chapters 4 and 5 show Solomon doing the greatest work of his life—building the temple. David had prepared for this, but Solomon was the one called to do it. He follows the pattern from the tabernacle and uses the best materials to honor God.

Fr. Mike highlights how Solomon does everything with great care. He makes beautiful furnishings and sacrifices many animals to show his love for the Lord. Solomon is giving God what he believes God deserves. It is a great moment of worship.

He also points out how Solomon corrects a past mistake. Unlike when Uzzah touched the ark and died, Solomon has the Levites carry the ark properly. This shows that he learned from David’s error and wanted to do things the right way.

Fr. Mike says the cloud of God’s glory filled the temple after the ark was placed inside. This was a sign that God accepted their offering. It marked the high point of Solomon’s life and work for the Lord.

The Temple Becomes the Center

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz explains that 2 Chronicles chapter 6 marks a major turning point. Solomon clearly sets Jerusalem and the temple as the one place where God will be worshipped. From now on, sacrifices and prayer will happen at the temple, not at random places.

Fr. Mike says Solomon’s prayer shows how serious this change is. Solomon asks God to hear prayers offered toward the temple—whether from individuals, from the whole nation, or even from foreigners. He wants people to look to the temple as their place of hope and forgiveness.

He also points out that the temple gives the people of Israel a new identity. Even if they are sent into exile, they are told to turn toward the temple when they pray. The temple becomes the one thing that can keep them united, even when scattered.

Fr. Mike reminds us that this chapter was written after the exile. The writer is looking back and showing how Solomon’s words helped the people stay connected to God. The temple is more than a building—it becomes the heart of their worship and their faith.

Warning Signs at the Temple

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapters 7 and 8. He explains that Solomon finishes the temple, offers a big prayer, and then God shows His presence by sending fire from heaven. The glory of the Lord fills the temple, and it becomes a special place of worship.

Fr. Mike points out that God appears to Solomon again. This time, God gives a warning. If the people stay faithful, God will bless them. But if they turn to other gods, the temple will be rejected, and they will lose the land.

Fr. Mike says Solomon is already starting to slip. In chapter 8, Solomon brings Pharaoh’s daughter into a separate house. Instead of helping her follow the Lord, he lets her stay apart. This shows a failure to bring others into God’s covenant.

He also notices that Solomon gathers horses and chariots, which God had warned against. Fr. Mike says this shows that wisdom is not enough. Solomon knows what is right, but he chooses not to obey.

Gold Shields and a Hollow Throne

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapter 9. He explains that this chapter marks the end of Solomon’s life and the height of his wealth and fame. The visit of the Queen of Sheba shows how far his wisdom had spread.

Fr. Mike points out that Solomon built many beautiful things, but some were just for show. The gold shields are a key example. They looked strong but were not useful in battle. Fr. Mike says this makes us ask if Solomon was becoming like the shields—shiny on the outside but weak underneath.

He reflects on how Solomon built the temple for God with care and purpose. But later in life, Solomon seems to gather wealth and power for himself. Fr. Mike wonders if Solomon’s heart was starting to drift from the Lord.

Fr. Mike ends by asking us to look at our own lives. Do we try to look good on the outside while ignoring what’s really going on inside? He prays that we would become truly strong, good, and faithful—not just in appearance, but in truth.

Bad Advice and a Broken Kingdom

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapters 10 and 11. He explains how Rehoboam becomes king and is asked by the people to lighten their burden. The older advisors tell him to be kind. But he listens to the younger men instead and answers harshly.

Fr. Mike says this bad choice causes the kingdom to split. Ten tribes leave and follow Jeroboam in the north. Only Judah and Benjamin stay with Rehoboam in the south. This moment starts the time of two kingdoms.

He points out that 2 Chronicles gives more details about Rehoboam’s early rule. Rehoboam listens to God’s word when a prophet tells him not to go to war. He also strengthens the cities of Judah and builds up his defenses.

Fr. Mike also notes that the Levites leave the north and move to Judah. Jeroboam had removed them, so they go where they can still serve the Lord. This helps the southern kingdom stay strong for a few years.

From Gold to Bronze: A Kingdom in Decline

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how 2 Chronicles chapters 12 and 13 show the fall and rise of two kings. Rehoboam turns away from God, and because of that, Egypt attacks Jerusalem. The people repent, and God holds back full destruction, but they still suffer great loss.

Fr. Mike talks about how Rehoboam loses the gold shields made by Solomon. He replaces them with bronze ones. Fr. Mike says this shows how fast things can fall apart when we stop following God. A kingdom built on gold becomes a kingdom of bronze in just five years.

Then Rehoboam’s son Abijah becomes king. Fr. Mike says Abijah is faithful, and because of that, he wins in battle. He doesn’t trust in his own strength but calls on the Lord.

Fr. Mike reminds us that faithfulness is what matters most. He says Abijah shows us that success comes from trusting God, not from power or numbers.

Three Steps Toward Faithfulness

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapters 14 and 15. He explains that Asa becomes king after Abijah. Asa follows God and leads the people to do the same. He tears down idols and false altars.

Fr. Mike says Asa’s actions show true faith. He removes his mother from being queen because she made a false image. Asa wants his family and kingdom to stay faithful. Fr. Mike points out that Asa’s heart stayed loyal to God his whole life.

Fr. Mike lists three signs of real faith. First, remove idols from your life. Second, offer your blessings back to God. Third, obey His commandments in daily life. Asa does all three.

Fr. Mike reminds listeners to check their own lives. He asks if God has any rivals in our hearts. He encourages everyone to be like Asa—faithful in actions, not just words.

A Good Start, but a Bad Finish

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapters 16 and 17. He focuses on King Asa and how he started off well but did not finish strong. Asa had trusted God before, but in chapter 16, he makes a deal with a foreign king instead of trusting the Lord.

Fr. Mike explains that a prophet named Hanani warns Asa about his mistake. Instead of listening, Asa gets angry and punishes the prophet. Later, when Asa becomes sick, he still does not turn to God. He only looks for help from doctors.

Fr. Mike says Asa’s story is a warning. We can follow God for many years and still fall at the end if we stop trusting Him. He reminds us that it is important to not just start well, but to finish well too.

Fr. Mike also talks briefly about Jehoshaphat in chapter 17. He says Jehoshaphat begins his reign with faithfulness and strength. Unlike Asa, Jehoshaphat will keep walking with the Lord for most of his life.

A Good King Makes a Bad Choice

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapters 18 and 19. He focuses on King Jehoshaphat of Judah and how he joins with Ahab, the evil king of Israel. Even though Jehoshaphat is a good king, this was a poor decision.

Fr. Mike explains that Jehoshaphat makes an alliance by marriage and goes into battle with Ahab. After the battle, the prophet Jehu tells him that he should not have helped someone who hates the Lord. Fr. Mike points out that we can belong to God and still make mistakes.

Fr. Mike says there is still some good in Jehoshaphat. He had removed false worship and tried to follow God. This shows that people can make bad choices but still return to the right path.

Jehoshaphat reminds us that even good people can slip up. But like him, we can keep turning back to the Lord.

God Fights for Judah

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares reflections on 2 Chronicles chapter 20. He focuses on King Jehoshaphat and how he turns to God when Judah faces a large enemy army. Jehoshaphat calls for a fast, and the people come together to pray.

Fr. Mike highlights how Jehoshaphat trusts God instead of his own strength. The Lord speaks through a prophet, telling the people they won’t have to fight. They only need to go out, stand still, and watch what God will do.

As the army of Judah goes out praising God, their enemies turn on each other. Judah wins the battle without lifting a sword. Fr. Mike reminds us that sometimes, like in this story, we are called to be still and let God work.

Fr. Mike also notes that Jehoshaphat was a good king. He compares him to his father Asa but says Jehoshaphat did even more to remove idol worship.

Bad Kings and a Hidden Hope

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 2 Chronicles chapters 21 and 22. He explains how Jehoram becomes king after Jehoshaphat. Jehoram kills his brothers and follows the example of Ahab, the wicked king of Israel. Fr. Mike says Jehoram leads the people of Judah into sin and brings danger to the kingdom.

Fr. Mike also talks about Ahaziah, Jehoram’s son. Ahaziah rules badly, just like his father. He listens to bad advice from his mother, who is also from Ahab’s family. He ends up dying after joining with Israel’s king in battle.

After Ahaziah’s death, his mother Athaliah seizes power. Fr. Mike points out that she tries to destroy the whole royal family of Judah. She wants the throne for herself, but one child, Joash, is hidden away.

Fr. Mike says this shows how God’s promise to David is still alive. Even when things seem lost, God keeps a way open through Joash.

A Hidden King and a New Covenant

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapter 23. He focuses on how Joash, the young son of Ahaziah, is saved from Queen Athaliah. She tried to destroy the royal family, but Joash was hidden for six years.

Fr. Mike explains how Jehoiada the priest makes a plan to protect and crown Joash. The people support the plan, and Joash becomes king at a young age. Athaliah is removed, and peace is restored.

Fr. Mike points out that this moment is key for Judah. The line of David is saved, and the people return to the Lord. Jehoiada makes a covenant to follow God again.

He also says this shows that God keeps His promises. Even when leaders are unfaithful, God stays faithful. Fr. Mike reminds listeners that God is always working, even when things look bad.

A King Who Needed Guidance

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles 24. He explains that Joash was a good king as long as Jehoiada the priest was alive. Jehoiada gave him guidance and helped him follow the Lord.

Fr. Mike says Joash repaired the temple and brought back the offering tax from Moses’ time. People supported this effort, and worship was restored. Things were going well while Jehoiada was still around.

But after Jehoiada died, Joash changed. He listened to bad advice and turned away from God. When Jehoiada’s son Zechariah tried to call him back, Joash had him killed.

Fr. Mike says Joash could have ended his life as a good king. Instead, he became a bad one. He reminds us that we all need someone to guide us. Without a voice of truth in our lives, we can fall too.

Amaziah’s Good Start and Sad Fall

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapter 25. He says Amaziah began as a decent king. He did what was right in God’s eyes, but his heart was not fully loyal.

Fr. Mike points out that Amaziah listened to a prophet at first. He trusted God instead of keeping the army he had paid for. Because of that, Judah won a battle without help from Israel. But soon after, Amaziah turned away from God.

Fr. Mike says it’s hard to understand how Amaziah could win a battle with God’s help and then start worshipping false gods. He wonders what changed in Amaziah’s heart so quickly. Maybe his faith was never strong to begin with.

Later, Amaziah gets proud and picks a fight with Israel. Judah loses badly. Fr. Mike says Amaziah started well but ended in shame. He reminds us that it’s not enough to begin well—we have to stay faithful to the end.

Two Kings, Two Lessons

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares thoughts on 2 Chronicles chapters 26 and 27. He talks about Uzziah, who became king at age 16 and ruled for 52 years. Uzziah started off strong and did many good things for Judah.

But later, Uzziah became proud. He entered the temple and tried to offer incense, which was only for the priests. Fr. Mike explains that this wasn’t false worship, but it was wrong worship. Uzziah knew better but chose to disobey.

God struck Uzziah with leprosy, and he lived the rest of his life apart from others. Fr. Mike points out how pride can lead us to stop listening to God, even after many good years.

Then we meet Jotham, Uzziah’s son. Fr. Mike says Jotham did well and stayed faithful. He ordered his life before the Lord and became strong. Unlike his father, he finished well.

Ahaz Turns Away

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapter 28. He says King Ahaz was one of the worst kings in Judah. Ahaz worshipped false gods and even sacrificed his own son. He closed the temple and made altars all over Jerusalem.

Fr. Mike explains that because of this, God let Judah be attacked. Syria and Israel defeated them. Many people were killed or taken away. Ahaz still did not turn to God.

A prophet named Oded told Israel not to keep the captives from Judah. Some leaders listened and sent the people home. They even gave them food, clothes, and donkeys for the journey.

Fr. Mike says Ahaz became more unfaithful in his pain. Instead of asking God for help, he gave gold to Assyria and worshipped the gods of his enemies. In the end, he died far from the Lord.

Hezekiah Starts Fresh

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles chapter 29. He explains how Hezekiah becomes king and starts fixing what his father Ahaz had ruined. Right away, in the first month of his reign, Hezekiah opens the temple and begins repairs.

Fr. Mike points out that Hezekiah doesn’t just clean the temple. He also removes false worship from the land. Unlike some other kings, Hezekiah is not afraid to upset people. He knows real worship means obeying God, even when it’s hard.

He praises Hezekiah for being a strong leader. Hezekiah doesn’t say anything bad about his father. Instead, he shows what he believes by his actions. He chooses to follow God and lead the people back to worship.

Fr. Mike also reminds listeners that all those temple rituals make more sense now. He says we’ve read about them before in books like Leviticus and Deuteronomy. Now we see them being used again in 2 Chronicles 29.

Come Back and Celebrate

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how 2 Chronicles 30 shows King Hezekiah reaching out to all of Israel. He sends messages even to the northern tribes, asking them to come to Jerusalem and keep the Passover. Some people mock the invitation, but others listen and come.

Fr. Mike points out how Hezekiah wants the people to return to true worship. They had not celebrated the Passover the right way in a long time. Now, Hezekiah brings them back together to do it as God asked. He even prays for those who weren’t fully prepared.

Fr. Mike highlights how joyful the people were. The feast was so good that they decided to keep going for another seven days. He says this shows a generous heart that doesn’t rush away from worship.

He ends by reminding us that God wants our whole heart. Hezekiah didn’t do things halfway. He called the people to give God what He asked for. Fr. Mike invites us to do the same.

Heaps of Blessing and Faithfulness

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles 31 and how Hezekiah helped the people return to true worship. After the Passover, the people went out and tore down false altars and idols in the land. Fr. Mike says this shows how serious they were about turning back to God.

He explains how Hezekiah set up the priests and Levites again, so worship could happen the way God had commanded. Hezekiah even gave from his own wealth to support the temple offerings. The people followed his lead and brought their own tithes in great amounts.

Fr. Mike highlights how the people gave so much that it piled up in heaps. When Hezekiah saw the heaps, he blessed God and the people. The priest said they had plenty to eat and much left over because God had blessed them.

Fr. Mike ends by saying Hezekiah did what was right and faithful. He served God with his whole heart, and it showed in how he led others to do the same. This part of 2 Chronicles shows Hezekiah at his best.

Hezekiah’s Final Years

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 2 Chronicles 32. He talks about how Hezekiah faced the invasion of Sennacherib, king of Assyria. Hezekiah trusted God and prepared wisely, and the Lord protected Jerusalem.

Fr. Mike highlights how Hezekiah was a strong leader who encouraged the people to trust in God, not in human strength. He praised Hezekiah for speaking with courage and reminding the people that the Lord fights their battles.

Later in the chapter, Fr. Mike points out that Hezekiah became proud after God helped him. He didn’t return thanks the way he should have. But then he humbled himself, and God’s anger did not fall during his lifetime.

Fr. Mike ends by saying Hezekiah’s last years were filled with blessing and success, but they were also marked by pride. He reminds us to use the time we are given to grow in holiness, not to drift away from God.

Manasseh’s Second Chance

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles 33. He explains how Manasseh, who was one of the worst kings in Judah, led the people into deep sin. He set up false altars and filled God’s temple with idols.

But then something surprising happened. Manasseh was taken away to Babylon, and there he humbled himself. He cried out to God, and God listened. Fr. Mike says this shows that even the worst person can return to God.

Manasseh came back and made real changes. He tore down the idols and rebuilt the altar of the Lord. He commanded Judah to follow the true God again.

Fr. Mike says this is really good news for us. If someone like Manasseh can repent and be heard by God, then there is always hope. God’s mercy is always ready when we turn back to Him.

Josiah’s Faithful Heart

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Chronicles 34. He highlights King Josiah’s deep desire to follow God. Even as a young boy, Josiah began seeking the Lord. As he grew, he tore down idols and cleaned up the land.

Fr. Mike points out how Josiah didn’t just stop with removing sin. He also rebuilt the house of the Lord. During those repairs, they found the book of the law. When Josiah heard the words, he tore his clothes in sorrow and wanted to know what God wanted.

Fr. Mike shares how Josiah’s heart was humble and open. God saw that and promised Josiah peace. Even though judgment would still come, Josiah would not see it in his lifetime.

Fr. Mike reminds us that no matter what others are doing, we can choose to follow God. Like Josiah, we can seek the Lord with all our heart and soul.

A Passover to Remember and a King’s Fall

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 2 Chronicles 35. He shares how Josiah led one of the greatest Passover celebrations in Israel’s history. Everything was done as God had asked, and the people joined in fully. It had not been celebrated like this since the time of the prophet Samuel.

Fr. Mike highlights how Josiah truly honored the Lord. He valued worship and followed God’s ways with care. Fr. Mike says this shows Josiah had the right priorities. He wanted to give God what was due to Him.

But Josiah’s story ends in sadness. He ignored a warning from Pharaoh Necho and went into battle. Josiah was killed, even though the message may have come from God. Fr. Mike reminds us that even good people can make poor choices.

This chapter shows Josiah’s deep love for God, but also his weakness.

A Closing Word of Hope

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 2 Chronicles 36. He talks about the fall of Judah and how the people were taken into exile. Fr. Mike explains that Zedekiah’s disobedience led to terrible suffering, and the people ignored God’s messengers for too long.

Fr. Mike highlights how the exile was a result of many years of turning away from God. He points out the spiritual reason given in 2 Chronicles: the land needed to rest and recover its lost Sabbaths. The people refused to honor God’s command to rest and worship, so God gave the land rest in their absence.

Even with all the sadness, Fr. Mike sees a message of hope. He explains how the chapter ends with King Cyrus of Persia allowing the people to return. This return was promised by God and had been prophesied ahead of time.

Fr. Mike says this shows that God does not give up on His people. Even after judgment, He prepares the way for their return. The story of 2 Chronicles 36 ends with a call to go back and rebuild.

The Bible

The book of 2 Chronicles shows how the people of Judah tried to stay close to God. It tells stories of kings, the temple, and what happens when people listen—or don’t listen—to God. This book is just one part of the bigger story found in the Bible.

If you want to learn more about how Catholics read and understand the Bible, visit our page called A Catholic Approach to the Bible. It gives a simple guide to help you start reading and praying with Scripture.

What is 2 Chronicles about?

2 Chronicles tells the story of the kings of Judah. It starts with King Solomon and ends with the exile to Babylon. It shows how the people followed or turned away from God.

Why does 2 Chronicles focus on Judah and not Israel?

The writer chose to focus on the southern kingdom of Judah because that’s where the temple was. The temple and worship were very important in this book.

Why is the temple mentioned so much?

The temple was the center of prayer and worship for God’s people. The book shows how the temple was built, cared for, and sometimes forgotten.

How does 2 Chronicles connect to Catholic life?

It reminds us to stay faithful, pray often, and turn back to God when we sin. It also shows the value of worship, just like we see in the Mass.

2 Chronicles tells the story of the kings of Judah. It begins with Solomon, who builds the temple and rules with peace and wisdom. But later kings struggle. Some follow God, others do not. The book shows what happens when people trust God—and what happens when they turn away.

Worship is a big part of this book. The temple is the center of prayer, sacrifice, and praise. When the kings lead the people in worship, things go well. When they ignore God, the nation suffers. The message is clear: stay faithful, and God will guide you.

This book also shows God’s patience. Even after many sins and mistakes, God allows the people to return home. The story ends with hope. It reminds us that no matter how far we fall, God still wants us back.

Catholics can see many lessons here—about prayer, mercy, leadership, and starting over with God.

Have you ever read 2 Chronicles? This book has powerful lessons about faith, leadership, and worship. It shows how turning to God brings peace, and how turning away brings trouble. Even though it’s an Old Testament book, the message still fits today.

We invite you to read it and think about what it means in your own life. Then leave a comment and share what stood out to you. Did a certain king’s story speak to you? Did something surprise you? Let’s learn from each other.