From 365 Days to 800: How The Bible in a Year Podcast Transformed My Faith Journey

When my collegemate, Joe Mathai first told me about The Bible in a Year podcast by Fr. Mike Schmitz, I wasn’t sure if I could commit. Reading the entire Bible in a year? That sounded intense—like running a marathon, but for my faith. Yet something inside me said, “Why not?” Little did I know this journey wouldn’t just change how I read the Bible but would transform my relationship with God and my purpose in life.

Here’s the truth: it didn’t take me 365 days. It took me close to 800. And you know what? That’s okay.

At first, I worried I was failing because I wasn’t on schedule. But I realized this wasn’t about deadlines or ticking off a checklist. It was about meeting God where I was. Fr. Mike’s warm, authentic voice helped me see that faith isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up.

Every episode felt like a conversation with God. Some passages challenged me, pushing me to grow. Others gave me peace on tough days. And Fr. Mike? He made it feel real—his humor, clarity, and genuine passion brought the stories of the Bible alive. It didn’t feel like a lecture; it felt like hanging out with a friend who wants you to succeed in life and faith.

Here’s what I learned:

1. It’s okay to take your time. God isn’t watching the clock. Whether it’s 365 days or 800, what matters is moving forward.

2. The Bible is alive. It’s not just stories from the past—it speaks to our struggles, dreams, and questions right now.

3. God wants a relationship, not perfection. You don’t have to “get it right” every time. Every step you take matters.

What’s incredible is how the Bible connects every piece to Jesus, who is at the center of it all. Fr. Mike’s guidance helped me see how God’s Word is more than a book—it’s a roadmap for living with purpose, courage, and love.

For anyone thinking, “This sounds too much for me,” let me say this: just start. Don’t worry about being perfect or finishing on time. Your pace doesn’t matter; your heart does. Whether you’re in high school, college, or just figuring out life, this podcast can change your perspective.

And here’s some great news: The Bible in a Year is now available in different languages, including Malayalam. If you’ve ever thought about diving into Scripture but felt unsure, this is your chance.

So press play. Start small. Give God a little time every day—and watch how He transforms your life. Trust me, it’s worth it.

"The Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to the dividing of soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." – Hebrews 4:12

Rating: 5/5. Strongly recommended