Parenting on Pointნიმუში

Cultivating Compassion and Empathy

In the four gospels that tell the life story of Jesus Christ, there are around 60 passages that mention His range of emotions. The emotion of Jesus that is mentioned more than any other is compassion.

Compassion and empathy are powerful qualities that reflect the heart of God. They involve understanding and sharing the feelings of others, offering kindness and support when someone is hurting. Teaching children to be compassionate and empathetic is essential for building loving relationships and serving others with a Christ-like heart.

Begin by helping your children understand what compassion and empathy mean. Both qualities are rooted in love and care for others by asking, “What is this situation like for them?” Model compassion and empathy in your own life. Show your children how you listen attentively, offer help, or speak kind words to those in need. Share stories of times when you felt empathy for someone and were moved to act with compassion.

Encourage your children to be aware of others' feelings. Teach them to notice when someone is sad, lonely, or upset and to ask, “How can I help?” or “How can I pray for you?” or simply to offer a listening ear. Explain that sometimes just being present and showing care is enough. This helps your children (and us) not to be as selfish, thinking everything is about them/us.

Create opportunities for your children to practice compassion. Serve together at a local charity, help a neighbor, or visit someone who is sick or lonely. Serving together at church is a great way to help your kids start to consider other people and grow in compassion. Encourage them to look for ways to be a blessing to those around them, reminding them that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

One day, some years later, our teenage daughter came home from school and shared a story of her own. “Dad,” she said, “there’s this new kid in my class who doesn’t really talk to anyone. Today, I decided to sit with him at lunch. He was really quiet at first, but then he started telling me about how hard it’s been moving to a new school. I think he just needed someone to listen.” My heart swelled with joy as I saw our daughter growing in empathy and compassion, reflecting the heart of Jesus to a new kid in her class.

Discuss stories of compassion and empathy from the Bible, like the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) or Jesus healing the sick (Mark 1:40-45). Talk about how Jesus showed compassion and how we are called to do the same. Teach your children that compassion starts with listening. Encourage them to listen more and talk less, especially when someone is sharing their struggles or emotions. Help them understand that truly listening is a way to show love and respect. Encourage them to pray for others, especially those who are hurting. Remind them that prayer is a powerful way to show empathy and compassion, as it brings the needs of others before God and seeks His help and comfort.

Dear Lord, thank You for showing us perfect compassion and empathy through Jesus. Help us to love others as You love us, to listen with our hearts, and to be moved to action when we see others in need. Fill our hearts with Your love and grace so we can be a light to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.