S3 E30: Never Mind, God, I Found One - Learning to Really Listen

How many times have we heard something but didn't really get the message or get the point? Kevin Shaughnessy's reflection on the Good Shepherd Gospel challenges us to move beyond partial hearing to true listening—the kind that requires focus, interpretation, understanding, and action. Using the story of Jesus healing the man born blind and the Pharisees' stubborn refusal to listen, we're reminded that Jesus is the true shepherd and gatekeeper, the only genuine path to heaven with no shortcuts or sneaky routes. The challenge is straightforward: hear, listen, and act. But ignoring the noises of the world and staying laser-focused on Jesus' voice is harder than it sounds. Are we missing opportunities to provide safety and comfort to the vulnerable, or to practice sacrificial love? The humorous parking lot prayer story—where a man asks God for a spot, finds one, and says "never mind, God, I found one"—reminds us not to be oblivious when God is messaging us. Turns out sheep are actually smart: they have good memories, recognize faces, and learn from trouble. So let's be sheep who follow the Good Shepherd, end up in his loving care, and succeed in earning eternal life by hearing him, listening to him, acting, and thanking him.

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Kevin has resided in Midland since he & his wife, Mary, married in 1980. Their 4 adult children are married and they enjoy the interactions with their 10 grandchildren.

Kevin is retired from Dow Chemical and is active in many volunteer capacities in the community; most notably with Midland Kiwanis and helping to lead the Guatemalan Stove Mission.

Below is Kevin's favorite picture of the Good Shepherd.