The sheep that belong to me listen to my voice

I do not own any sheep. But I inherited two grown dogs after the children and grandchildren moved out of the family home.

Over the years the dogs and I kept a safe distance. We were not particularly fond of each other.

Yet, within a few weeks of my inheritance they have become very affectionate. They listen to my voice, they take every opportunity to lick my hand when I go to feed them. And they are overwhelmed with joy when I just approach the back door and when I arrive home.

As I read this week’s Gospel John 10:27-30 ‘The sheep that belong to me listen to my voice’ I thought about my two dogs.

Jesus was not calling us sheep, but using a metaphor to communicate the bond between his followers and himself. And based on my experience with the dogs, I believe this is a challenge. If only I can show such love towards Jesus, my master.

I believe to listen to Jesus’ voice is to bend my will to His. It means quieting the noise of my own desires, fears, and ambitions long enough to truly hear what He is saying—not just in scripture or prayer, but in the ordinary events of each day.

Just as the dogs have learned to trust my presence, respond to my call, and rejoice when I return, I too must grow in sensitivity to Christ’s presence. To listen is not passive; it is an act of surrender, of obedience rooted in love. And like them, I want to recognize the sound of His footsteps at the door of my heart and run to meet Him with joy.

To listen to His voice is also to listen attentively to those who are dear to me—my spouse, family, close friends, spiritual companions—those who genuinely seek my good and often speak with the wisdom and love of Christ, even if they do not realize it. Their words, encouragement, concerns, and even gentle corrections can be channels of the Lord’s voice in my life.

So often in my pride or impatience, I may be tempted to dismiss them, but when I listen with humility and discernment, I often discover that Jesus is speaking through them, guiding me, calling me to deeper love, to repentance, or to renewed trust. True listening requires openness of heart, not just to the divine, but to the human voices God chooses to use.

Reading this Gospel passage, I ask myself: do I truly live as someone who belongs to Jesus? Do I recognize His voice in prayer, in scripture, in the people around me? Belonging to Him is more than belief—it is relationship, trust, and a willingness to follow. As I reflect on my dogs’ joyful response to my presence, I pray for a heart that responds to Jesus with the same eagerness, love, and loyalty.

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I take this opportunity to especially thank my patrons to this Ministry of the Word. Without your generosity I would not be able to dedicate the time and effort to this work. Through you, I believe, Jesus is blessing this work in the vineyard for growth.