Empathy

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:16-17

Jesus showed up to save, rescue, and redeem. His life, death, and resurrection is the love of God on display. Jesus identified with us in our weakness, our vulnerability, and our suffering. He could have come in condemnation. Instead he came in compassion.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Christian martyr during World War II, said, “We must learn to regard people less in the light of what they do or omit to do, and more in the light of what they suffer.” If we can do this, we will be on our way toward the Jesus way.

The days behind us and the days before us are going to be challenging days. It is important that we approach one another with empathy.

Empathy is approaching another person with compassion instead of judgment. Empathy is what it looks like when grace is the driving force of your life. Empathy empowers love in a season when social distancing is the responsible approach.

I am reminded of Peter’s admonition when he said, “have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.” 1 Peter 3:8

Empathy toward one another is how we continue to show up in the days ahead.

This too shall pass! But let our love be deeper, our grace richer, and our compassion wider.

Prayer: Lord, we give you thanks for those who are leaving marks of goodness on our lives. Whether they wear a teachers hat or a doctor’s white coat or a truckers hat or steel-toed boots, they are leaving a trail of love and grace behind. We are thankful today. We give you thanks for those on the frontlines keeping us safe and well-equipped for the days ahead. In the name of Jesus we pray for their protection. Amen.

Blessings,

Rev. Jamey Prickett