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Presented by Lisa Bishop
We’re examining five compassion killers—things that can hinder our compassion toward others. Let’s tackle another compassion killer, and that’s busyness.
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to become so preoccupied with our own lives that we are not in tune with what others around us are going through. When we’re consumed by our schedules, juggling work, family, and countless responsibilities, rushing from one task or activity to another, we may miss ways to see and step into the pain and needs of others. In his ministry, Jesus modeled a different approach. He often paused amid the chaos, offering kindness and attention and engaging with those in need, and he calls us to slow down and look around—to look for opportunities to do the same.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
We have been comforted so we can be conduits of compassion to others. Maybe a coworker is experiencing a personal loss, disappointment in being passed over for a promotion, or another challenging life event.
A way we can show compassion is by listening empathically. When we listen empathically, we are not trying to fix someone, give them advice, or share our “that happened to me too” stories.
Rather we listen with the intent to deeply understand another person in a way they feel heard and valued. Think of the last time someone truly listened to you. In difficult times, genuine listening can help people pull through. What distractions might be blinding you to the suffering of others?
Take time this week to spend a moment in silence, reflect and ask yourself, “What in your life pulls you away from being present with others? How can you carve out time to be more aware of those around you? What would it require of you to step into the needs of others? Maybe it’s courage or sacrificing your time or comfort.
Before the start of your workday, make it a habit to pray. Ask the Holy Spirit, “Who can I demonstrate compassion toward today?”
When we slow down long enough to be present to those around us, Jesus shows us many opportunities for his compassion to flow through us.