Faith without religion.
Heartfelt Conversations on Faith, Family, and Spiritual Transformation with Kathy and Ben
Kathy joined Shawn McCraney’s show for a heartfelt discussion about her journey, her family, and her evolving faith. She began by sharing her gratitude for her current living situation with her son after a challenging time with her daughter. Despite her struggles with near-blindness and severe back pain, Kathy expressed her daily gratitude and commitment to finding joy in the Lord.
Reflecting on her past, Kathy detailed her experience as a polygamist for 13 years and the realization that the practice was not divinely inspired. Her discovery of Shawn’s teachings over 14 years ago became a pivotal moment in her life, helping her leave behind doctrines she found oppressive. She credited Shawn with helping her understand fulfillment theology, particularly the idea that Christ’s return had already occurred. Kathy shared how this understanding brought her clarity, especially regarding scriptural phrases about Christ’s imminent return, which had previously confused her.
A central question Kathy raised was about the nature of the Holy Spirit. She pondered whether the Holy Spirit could be viewed as the feminine aspect of God, emanating from Him. Shawn agreed that the Holy Spirit is a vital part of God, with a role centered on guiding individuals to faith in Christ. He emphasized the importance of listening to the Spirit and assured Kathy that rejecting the Spirit’s call is the only act that goes unforgiven—until repentance and acceptance occur.
Kathy expressed concerns about her children’s spiritual journeys, noting that while most have left Mormonism, some still struggle with faith. She spoke tenderly about her daughter who has distanced herself and her brother-in-law, an atheist. Shawn reassured her that God’s love and grace are unending and that He continues to reach out to everyone, even those who seem far from Him. He encouraged Kathy to rest in faith and trust God’s ability to work in her loved ones’ lives.
The conversation also touched on Kathy’s observations about the LDS leadership and the institution’s history, which she found oppressive, particularly toward women. She expressed her eagerness for Shawn’s upcoming analysis of President Nelson and the implications of polygamy within LDS leadership.
Despite her physical struggles and familial challenges, Kathy’s deep faith and love for her children were evident. Shawn praised her genuine heart and commitment to Christ, reminding her of the enduring power of love and God’s faithfulness. Before ending the call, Kathy requested prayers for her brother, Calman, who is in hospice. Shawn promised to pray for peace and comfort for him.
Later in the show, Ben, a former Mormon from Washington, called in for the first time to share his journey to faith. Growing up in the LDS church, Ben struggled with sin and dyslexia, relying heavily on others for spiritual guidance. His life changed when his Christian wife introduced him to the gospel, leading him to discover salvation through grace. Ben shared how Ephesians 2:8-10 transformed his understanding of faith and works, freeing him from the burden of trying to earn salvation.
Ben expressed gratitude for Shawn’s teachings and for the clarity they’ve brought to his spiritual walk. They discussed the recent revelations about Micah Wilder, with Ben affirming that Shawn’s critique of Micah focused on his hypocrisy, not his sin. Ben shared his commitment to raising his family in faith and his efforts to share the gospel with his still-LDS relatives. Shawn prayed for Ben and his family, celebrating the transformative work God has done in their lives.
The episode showcased the beauty of faith journeys, the importance of honest questions, and the reassurance of God’s love and grace, providing inspiration and encouragement to listeners navigating their own spiritual paths.
