|
by Jenny Santos Mk. 1:40-45 
E mpathy is the ability to put oneself in another’s shoes. It is one’s capacity to identify with the feelings of another.
During my first few years in the mission, empathy was a challenge. I found it hard to relate to the painful experiences of my brothers and sisters, basically because I myself have not encountered such kind of happenings in my life. I grew up in a family where my parents never involved us or made us aware of our domestic problems. All I knew then was simply to attend to my own agenda like studying and later on finding a good job.
My involvement in the community has opened my eyes to the real life in this world. All of us were not shielded from pains or sickness after all. Misfortunes will surely come. The support coming from our brothers and sisters plays a vital role for us to handle it well. It really matters when there are people who understand how you are going through.
In our Gospel today, Jesus shows the true meaning of empathy.
Lepers, during Jesus’ time, were outcasts in the society. They were driven out their homes, and their families and relatives considered them dead. The Jewish law even forbade people to touch them because it could cause ritual defilement.
Jesus demonstrated great love and compassion to the leper. Instead of shunning him, He touched him and healed him not only physically but spiritually as well.
Friends, every day we encounter people from different walks of life. How do we relate with them? Do we treat people fairly notwithstanding their status in the society? Do we have a compassionate heart to understand them well?
Prayer:
Lord, cleanse us both physically and spiritually. Give us a compassionate heart that beats for your people. Amen. |
