Reflection: Empathy — feeling for others and emotionally connecting with their distress.
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It is rooted in the Bible, and it goes beyond mere sympathy. It calls Christians to experience and demonstrate deep compassion and understanding towards those around them.
Empathy involves actively seeking to understand the emotions, experiences, and perspectives of others. Genuine concern for the well-being of fellow human beings and a willingness to walk alongside them in their joys and sorrows.
How can we experience empathy? Showing interest in others by inviting them to share more about their experiences. When someone shares their thoughts and feelings, we should listen attentively without interrupting or judging. Being patient with others allows them to express themselves at their own pace.
One of the key tools we use in our Bible Society of Kenya projects is storytelling and active listening. This is powerful because it allows us to connect to peoples’ realities, connect with their emotions and feelings. As we listen to their stories, it helps them to gain a deeper understanding of their situations.
We can celebrate the successes and joys of others wholeheartedly, rejoicing with those who are rejoicing and willing to assist when someone is in need.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, grant me a heart that seeks to understand and share in the experiences of others. Teach me patience, Lord, as I listen and support others in their times of need. Grant me sensitivity to the emotions and struggles of those around me. Fill me with your grace that I may extend empathy and understanding as you have done for me. Amen.