Re: Verse reading–Acts 3:1-20 (day seven)
When I read a passage of Scripture I typically picture myself as one of the characters in the text. Pridefully, I tend to gravitate toward the hero. In this text, I like to think that I am Peter proclaiming truth and healing in the name of Jesus Christ, but in reality I am closer to the lame beggar and the crowd. I find myself to be a man in need of strengthening not a man dishing out miracles. As God heals I hope my reaction is as genuine as the beggar’s, leaping and praising God all the way into worship. Similarly, I am far more likely to be like the Peter who disowned Jesus at the crucifixion (which he accuses the crowd of here, v.13-14), rather than being the Peter who boldly changes a man’s life with the Gospel. Thankfully, we have a patient God who will forgive our pride and restore us to life.
2 Peter 3:8-9 But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.
In reading this blog, it reminds me of the concept of Empathy Intelligence. When we look at a situation from only our own perspective or experience base, we risk misinterpreting the feelings of others. When we seek to put ourselves in their shoes, we gain an understanding that often helps us be more patient and supportive of others.
We are far more effective when putting ourselves in someone’s shoes. We can assign the right motives and look at the situation or concern from their perspective or their experience, and their feelings, not from our own perspective and feelings. It is the right way to build compassion, build bridges and not walls, and to walk in love with Christ.
My model of conflict prevention and resolution is Emphathy Intelligence. We can provide a solution to an ongoing conflict by understanding the ongoing concern and the feelings of the other party and will be in search for solutions that will address the underlying concern and feelings and reach a resolution.
Jesus practiced emphathy and compassion and showed unconditional love as a healer. He revealed who He is! We can walk in love with Jesus when we follow His model of Emphathy Intelligence.
Reaching out to someone through putting ourselves in that person’s shoes helps build bridges and not walls. When I have a concern, I like for someone to understand it from my own perspective, my own experience, and my feelings, not from his or her own perspective or experience. We only can practice emphathy when we place ourselves in their shoes!
What were your reactions when someone came to you and asked for help? Were you able to provide a solution and a resolution? How did you feel when someone misinterpreted your concern and feelings?