empathy

  • As pastors and servant leaders, empathy is a practice that allows us to understand and be connected to those we are in relationship with. When empathy is present, people are allowed to feel acceptance into the organization and as leaders we experience a deeper connection with those we lead. Empathy is based in shared experience and relies on empathetic listening to understand the experiences of others. In this month’s reading, we get to see how unexpected connections with others leads us to a greater understanding which leads to greater empathy.

  • Questions for Individual Reflection:

    • Is there a situation where I did not offer generous attribution to someone and their motives? Was I assuming the worst of intentions? What do I need to do to change my assumption of their intentions?

    • Who is someone I need to do a better job of accepting for their uniqueness?

    • How can I model empathy today as a leader in my organization?

  • Questions for Mentoring Connection discussion:

    • Talk about a time where you felt someone lacked empathy towards you? How did that make you feel? What was your connection like to that person?

    • Is there a relationship you have that you struggle to show empathy? Describe that situation, are there ways that we can work together to build empathy towards that person?

  • Questions for Group Discussion:

    • Do you view each member of your team as unique and valuable? Why or why not?

    • What are the ways empathy has improved your connection to others?

    • What ways can you model empathy so that it becomes part of your organizational culture?

  • After exploring this practice, here are outcomes we would like to see established in participants:

    • Participants would learn to see each person they lead as unique and valuable contributors to their organization.

    • Participants would understand the necessity of empathy as an element of building safety and connection in relationships.

    • Participants would model empathy in their organizational relationships which would lead to a culture of empathy in their organizations.

 

Featured Scripture

Hebrews 4:15

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.

 

Featured Reading