How can we apply the empathy shown in John 11:31 in our lives? Setting the Scene “ ‘When the Jews who were with Mary in the house, consoling her, saw how quickly she got up and went out, they followed her, supposing she was going to the tomb to mourn there.’ ” (John 11:31) Observing the Empathy in John 11:31 • These friends had already invested time to “console” Mary. • They stayed close enough to notice her sudden movement—attentive presence. • They assumed her grief was taking her to the tomb and immediately accompanied her—shared sorrow in action. • No words recorded; their ministry was primarily physical proximity and silent support. Why Empathy Matters to God • Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” – Obedience to this command mirrors Christ’s heart. • Hebrews 4:15 shows Jesus as “able to sympathize with our weaknesses.” Our empathy reflects His priestly compassion. • 1 Corinthians 12:26: “If one member suffers, every part suffers with it.” The body image demands shared feeling and response. Practical Ways to Reflect This Empathy 1. Notice—be present enough to see sudden shifts in someone’s countenance or schedule. 2. Move toward—follow them into hard places rather than waiting for an invitation. 3. Listen more than speak—silence can say, “I’m here,” without forcing explanations. 4. Serve tangible needs—meals, child-care, transportation, or simply sitting nearby. 5. Keep showing up—grief often resurfaces; continue contact after the initial crisis. 6. Guard confidentiality—trust grows when sorrow is held quietly. 7. Pray privately and on-site—though words to God may be silent, your intercession supports unseen. Barriers to Empathy and How to Overcome Them • Self-preoccupation → Practice Philippians 2:3-4, looking to others’ interests. • Fear of saying the wrong thing → Remember the friends’ silent presence; perfect phrasing is unnecessary. • Busyness → Schedule margin; empathy requires unhurried time. • Emotional fatigue → Draw from Christ’s strength; Galatians 6:2 encourages burden-bearing that leads to mutual support. Living It Out Daily • Start each morning by asking, “Lord, whose tears or joys will You let me share today?” • Intentionally sit with someone at church or work who seems alone. • Send a short message: “Thinking of you and here if you need anything.” • Keep a flexible agenda; allow divine interruptions that invite compassionate action. • Celebrate recovery milestones and anniversaries, not just crisis moments. Encouragement from Scripture • Isaiah 63:9: “In all their distress, He too was afflicted.” • 2 Corinthians 1:4: God “comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble.” • Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Empathy shown in John 11:31 is simple, observable, and deeply powerful—staying close, noticing pain, and walking with the hurting. Let’s allow the Spirit to reproduce that same compassionate reflex in our own relationships every day. |
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