Simply Being There

FRESH Official Podcast

Anyone who’s ever brought up children knows how important it is to celebrate their achievements with them, and to be there for them when they’re hurting. We know that instinctively. But why is it important?

There’s nothing that you and I can contribute to a relationship that’s more powerful, more loving, than empathy. It creates a bridge, a bond between two people that’s not easily broken.

And whilst we know how important it is in the lives of our children, somehow it’s all too easy to forget that it’s equally important between adults. Hey, these days we’re so preoccupied with work amidst our 24/7 connectedness that many even neglect showing empathy to their children.

Speaking of how to live a godly life, the Apostle Paul writes this:

Romans 12:15,16 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. (ESV)

How practical is that? How real is that? How ‘here and now’ is that?

Love people, live in harmony with them, show them that you’re not prideful, simply by being there for them – by showing empathy, by celebrating with them, and mourning with them.

There’s a Swedish proverb that goes something like this: shared joy is joy that's doubled. Shared sorrow is sorrow that's cut in half.

So today, tomorrow, in your life, within your circle of friends, colleagues, loved ones, even strangers … rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.

That’s God’s Word. Fresh … for you … today.