Relationships
Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep* (Romans 12: 15).
Alessio Avenanti and his colleagues at the University of Bologna (Italy) observed the neuronal reaction of a person who was witnessing somebody else’s hand being injected. Through a procedure called transcranial magnetic stimulation, the researchers repeatedly noticed that the witness who was watching somebody else’s skin being pricked experienced a very similar reaction in his or her own corticospinal system. In fact, the electric activity of the cerebral cortex—the part of the brain that controlled the nerves of the hand—suffered a strong additional energy activity in the witness who was just watching. Afterwards, they asked the participants to observe a tomato being given a shot; in this case, there was no organic reaction. These experiments proved the neurological principles of empathy. Thus, it seems obvious that other people’s pain is reflected in our own nervous system.
It is encouraging to know that in spite of sin and moral decadence, there are still traces of the original character God gave us when He created us in His image after His likeness. Compassion and empathy seem to be an innate part of our being and we are created to empathize with others’ pain and joy. However, we can choose whether we want to empathize or not. That’s why the apostle Paul encourages Christ’s followers to choose the path of empathy: rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.
Empathy is a comprehensive and precise method of building relationships with others. It is also called interpersonal intelligence. It’s a more complex process than a simple electrochemical reaction of certain nerve endings. It is an actor of significant value when giving support and providing to the needs of others. Jesus had compassion (which is the same as empathy for people and helped them solve their physical and mental problems. «He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick» (Matt. 14: 14); He also had compassion for a large crowd «because they were like sheep not having a shepherd. So, He began to teach them many things» (Mark 6:34).
Find someone today whom you can empathize with. Try to provide relief to their pain. Keep yourself open to this possibility so that someone’s needs will be met because of your empathy. Apart from the good you will do to others, you will also reap the benefits of physical, psychological, and moral well-being.
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Taken from: Daily Devotions for Junior 2020
“A Cheerful Heart Is Good Medicine”
From: Julian Melgoza-Laura Fidanza
Colaboradores:Ricardo Vela & Emmanuel Tapia
