Display Empathy for Others

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15 NKJV

In a story titled “Detroit marathon marked by love and loss: A finish-line embrace and a mile 5 tragedy” published yesterday, the reporter said, “History was made Sunday at the 47th annual Detroit Free Press Marathon presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, a storied Motor City institution going back to 1978, For the first time, a married couple, Sydney Devore-Bowman and Andy Bowman, both of Ferndale, each claimed victory in their respective marathons, embracing at the finish line. Amid the day's elation, tragedy crept in as a 57-year-old man competing in the marathon collapsed and died around the fifth mile marker in the Canadian stretch of the course. He was taken to the Windsor Regional Hospital, marathon officials said, where he was pronounced dead. ‘We're saddened by this and our hearts go out to (the family), said Aaron Velthoven, the marathon vice president and race director.”

And, you know, as this story clearly shows, there will be times, days, or events in people’s lives when they will have cause for weeping, rejoicing or doing both at the same time. And it’s at these times that we, as believers, have the opportunity to put our love into action by rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep. In this way we will communicate a sincere regard and concern for other people by recognizing and joining them in their highs and lows—showing the love of Christ by empathizing with them in both their elations and their tragedies. 

So strive to truly understand what other people are going through today my friend. And then put love into action by weeping with them in their time of despair and rejoicing with them in their time of celebration. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that as believers we will all experience both love and loss in this world. Help us to take the comfort that You give us during our times of rejoicing and weeping and to give that same comfort and encouragement to others during their times of rejoicing and weeping. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!