The Greek word for “empathy” in the New American Standard Bible (NASB) is “συμπαθέω” which convey the idea of sharing in the feelings or experiences of others, showing compassion, or being moved with sympathy. The term is used to describe Jesus’ understanding of human frailty and suffering (Hebrews 4:15) and the compassion believers are encouraged to show toward one another (1 Peter 3:8).
The thing: To forge a genuine connection with someone, it’s crucial to grasp their narrative, what propels them, and how they convey themselves. Such a bond inherently relies on empathy, serving as the foundation for comprehending their journey, motivations, and unique way of communicating.
This principle doesn’t just whisper; it roars with the revolutionary ethos of biblical teachings on love and empathy. Jesus wasn’t just a good guy who had a nice thing going with parables; he was a radical who shredded societal norms. These aren’t just feel-good stories; they’re Jesus’s masterclass in empathy, his boots-on-the-ground operation of transforming lives. As his followers, it’s not about cozying up in the pews; it’s about rolling up our sleeves and getting in the trenches of humanity — unleashing understanding, compassion, just like He did.
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you” (James 4:8). “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).
In the absence of empathy, the ability to share in or comprehend the feelings of others is stunted, which is a cornerstone of meaningful connections. When compassion is lacking, we find it hard to offer solace and kindness during others’ trials. Grace, the very quality that allows room for mistakes and paves the way to forgiveness, gets sidelined, fostering a culture of harsh judgment and inflexibility that chokes personal and communal growth.
“What you see and what you hear depends a great deal on where you are standing. It also depends on what sort of person you are.”
– C.S. Lewis, The Magician’s Nephew
Therefore, let’s heed the call to action: deepening our spiritual connection with God. By investing time in prayer, meditation, and reflection, we can deepen our understanding of God’s character and intentions, seeking His guidance and wisdom in our interactions with others. As we do so, we bridge the gap between ourselves and God, fostering deeper connections with both Him and our fellow human beings.
Questions God Asks
- Invitations to Reflect: In several instances, God’s questions prompt individuals to reflect on their actions, motives, or circumstances. For example, when God asks Adam and Eve, “Where are you?” in Genesis 3:9, He is inviting them to reflect on their spiritual state and relationship with Him after they had disobeyed His command.
- Calls to Action: God’s questions sometimes serve as calls to action, prompting individuals to consider their role or response to His divine plan. For instance, when God asks Moses, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh?” in Exodus 3:11, He is challenging Moses to recognize His authority and calling to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
- Challenges to Faith: In certain instances, God’s questions challenge individuals to trust in His wisdom, sovereignty, and goodness. For example, when God questions Job about His role in creation in Job 38:4, He is challenging Job’s understanding of divine providence and inviting him to trust in God’s wisdom beyond human comprehension.
- Calls to Repentance: God’s questions also serve as calls to repentance, urging individuals to acknowledge their sinfulness and turn back to Him. For instance, when God asks Cain, “Where is your brother Abel?” in Genesis 4:9, He is calling Cain to confront his sin of murder and repent before Him.
Reflection Questions
- How can you incorporate prayer, meditation, and reflection into your daily routine to deepen your spiritual connection with God?
- In what ways do you currently seek God’s guidance and wisdom in your interactions with others, and how can you further develop this aspect of your spiritual journey?
- Reflecting on your experiences, how has deepening your understanding of God’s character and intentions impacted your relationships with both Him and your fellow human beings?
