A Mile of Shoe Leather: The Gift of Empathy

Most individuals are able feel sorrow for someone who is in pain, especially a person who is known and loved. Feelings of empathy are basic to healthy, loving relationships. Empathy depends on the willingness to put yourself in someone else's place, to feel what they feel, including their moments of joy as well as their sorrow.

“Walk a mile in their shoes” is an old saying that personalizes empathy. Our hurried lifestyles don’t allow time to think about other people’s struggles or to delight in their happiness and joy. Then in the course of our hurried life we often offend those we love by neglect and emotional distance.

Forgiveness is essential for healthy relationships but may go unheeded until it’s too late. God's word tells us that Jesus empathizes with us because he knows our joys and sorrows. He, himself experienced the pain and sorrow of being rejected by the very ones he came to save. Empathy is a gift that makes forgiveness possible. 

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He (God) is like a father to us, tender and sympathetic to those who reverence him.

~Psalm 103:13 The Living Bible

When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrow.

~Romans 12:15 The Living Bible

Do for others just what you want them to do for you.

~ Luke 6:31 Good News Bible