What is Empathy?
Empathy is defined as the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and experiencing the feelings, thoughts and experiences of another person. It is the ability to step into someone else’s shoes and seek to understand their perspective.
At Maranatha Christian School, empathy is one of our attributes along with reflect Christ, enduring, self-controlled, passionate, committed, and thoughtful. Empathy helps us move beyond simply recognising another person’s emotions to responding in ways that demonstrate love, kindness, understanding and genuine concern.
In a world that can often encourage people to focus on themselves, empathy reminds us to look outward. It helps us build stronger relationships, create healthy communities and develop a deeper appreciation for the experiences of others.
Empathy and Loving Our Neighbour
In Mark 12:28-31 we read: The Greatest Commandment
28 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”
29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’[b] 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself. There is no commandment greater than this.
Empathy is a key factor in God’s people loving their neighbour. Throughout Scripture we see examples of God’s unconditional love and compassion towards His people and His call for us to show that same love and compassion to others.
Growing empathy in our hearts requires us to take time to listen when someone is speaking or sharing with us. It asks us to slow down, pay attention and seek to understand before we respond. This can be difficult in a busy world where distractions are plentiful and quick opinions are common. However, genuine care for others begins with a willingness to listen.
Empathy is not something we either have or do not have. It is a skill that can be developed. As we practise listening, observing and seeking to understand others, our capacity for empathy grows. Over time, we become more aware of the joys, struggles and experiences of the people around us.
When we take the time to understand another person’s perspective, we are better able to support them, encourage them and respond with wisdom and grace. Empathy enables us to celebrate with those who are experiencing success and joy while also standing alongside those who are facing disappointment, grief or hardship.
How Do We Teach Our Children Empathy?
As with all learning, modelling empathy well helps children begin to understand and develop this important skill. Children learn not only from what we say, but also from what they consistently observe in the adults around them.
We can begin by asking ourselves some important questions:
- Do I listen attentively when my child or student is speaking?
- Do I seek to understand their perspective before offering advice or correction?
- Do I speak respectfully about other people, even when I disagree with them?
- Do I show compassion when others are struggling?
- Do I celebrate the achievements and successes of others?
Children learn empathy when they experience being listened to and understood. They also learn empathy when they see adults demonstrating care and concern for others. Every interaction provides an opportunity to teach and model these behaviours.
One practical way to develop empathy is to encourage children to consider how another person may be feeling. Questions such as:
- “How do you think they felt when that happened?”
- “Why do you think they responded that way?”
- “What could you do to help them?”
This helps children move beyond their own experiences and begin to understand the feelings and perspectives of others.
Reading Bible stories, discussing current events, serving others and participating in community activities can also provide valuable opportunities for children to develop empathy. These experiences help them appreciate that people may have different experiences, challenges and viewpoints.
Some scriptures to read/study with our children/students.
- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 – And the greatest of these is Love
- Philippians 2:1-11 – Imitating Christ’s humility
- Proverbs 18 (especially older students)
- Galatians 5:22 – The Fruit of the Spirit
- Colossians 2:2 – encouraged in heart and united in love.
Growing Together
Empathy strengthens our relationships, builds community and creates a culture where people feel valued and understood. It helps children develop social awareness, emotional maturity and healthy friendships that could last a lifetime. It also assists them to navigate conflict with greater wisdom and compassion.
Like many important character qualities, empathy is developed gradually through intentional practice. It grows when we listen carefully, seek understanding and choose compassion in our everyday interactions.
As parents, teachers and members of our school community, we have the privilege of helping children develop this important life skill. By modelling empathy ourselves and creating opportunities for children to practise it, we can help raise young people who are thoughtful, compassionate and equipped to contribute positively to the world around them, using their God-given gifts and talents.
My prayer is that we would continue growing in empathy ourselves and encourage the same growth in the children entrusted to our care. Through understanding, compassion and genuine concern for others, we reflect God’s love and help create a community where everyone feels seen, valued and supported.
Colleen Dutlow
Deputy Principal
Maranatha Christian School
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