Day 106: Saul Is Chosen (2026)

On Day 106 of 'The Bible in a Year' podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz introduces Saul, the first king of Israel, through 1 Samuel 9–10 and Proverbs 6:23–35. The episode begins with a reflection on the recent seven-day Gospel of John reading, then transitions into the royal kingdom period, highlighting Saul’s anointing by Samuel as a pivotal moment in Israel’s history. Saul is portrayed as physically imposing—handsome and exceptionally tall—fitting the image of a king, yet his internal struggle with public perception becomes a central theme. Despite being divinely chosen and anointed with oil, Saul hides among the baggage when selected by lot, revealing his deep concern for others’ opinions. Fr. Mike draws a powerful parallel between Saul’s spiritual transformation at baptism and the new creation we experience in Christ, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit empowers us for our vocations. The episode closes with a meditation on Proverbs 6, contrasting the understandable desperation of theft with the senseless destruction of adultery, urging listeners to examine their own hearts for sins that serve no purpose and only reveal brokenness. The message is clear: true leadership and holiness come not from image, but from surrender to God’s will.