Keeping an eye out for others and deliberately tuning into their emotional cues is important if we are to be in a position to offer them compassionate care. It is easy to miss opportunities to care in one of two ways.
First, we may not notice that someone is absent from church or from the circle within which we normally encounter them. Sickness may lead to someone missing out, or depression may make isolation feel better than connection. Older folks may find driving difficult and be unable to attend events.
Second, we may see people but miss the inner workings of their hearts. Discerning their emotional disposition may take some considerable effort, particularly because one mark of adulthood is the capacity to hide feelings. At VPC, we depend on your eyes to identify the absent and your heart to discern the struggling.
Which do you find harder—seeing the absent or sensing the trauma?
Do you have courage to reach out to others when you are struggling?
Family Focus: Share a time when you were sad or struggling and someone comforted you. Do you know anyone right now who needs a hug? A prayer? A call? A note? A ride? A visit?
November 23, 2024
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