When Empathy Fails

It is said that when others are in need or pain, we should response with empathy, not sympathy.
I agree – to some extent.
While there is a major difference in perspective between the two (empathy views the matter from the victim’s eyes, whereas sympathy views it from the beholder’s – which puts quite a contrast in the matter of understanding the problem), it is somewhat pitiable that our sense of empathy, as humans, is marred with imperfectness.
Take the example of Peter.
How did he respond to Jesus’ statement about His going to be betrayed into the hands of sinners, tortured and crucified – and on the third day be raised from the dead?
I love the way NIV puts it, “But Peter insisted EMPATHICALLY, ‘Even if I have to die with You, I will never disown You’” (Mark 14:31).
Peter replied with his human empathy, which sprang forth out of the depth of his heart and emotion. Nevertheless, as we need to keep in mind, as true and noble as a man’s heart can be, we are imperfect beings who are not immune to failures and shortcomings.
When the moment of trial and crucifixion came, as Jesus had predicted, Peter disowned Him. Not once, but thrice! His empathy melted, and he quivered before the pointing finger of a maid!
What caused Peter’s denial?
Fear.
He feared the Jews. He feared the heat of torment. He feared that slow and excruciating way of dying upon the cross. And so, he abandoned his Master.
But Jesus endured to the end. Even after Peter’s denial, even after all His beloved disciples deserted Him and He had to die alone on Calvary, He remained true to His promise: that He would give His life as a ransom for mankind.
What motivated Jesus’ endurance?
Love.
When all else fails, God’s love stands firm to the end.
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear” (I John 4:18).
It was God’s unfailing love that succeeded over all fear, pain, misery, and soared higher beyond our spheres of sorrow and despair.
And, for Peter, it was granted that he, too, was given the privilege to understand and receive this love of God that surpasses all understanding. It was after that moment of grace, as he accepted God’s love and sacrifice, that Peter was able to go through all trials and tribulations, and endured all sufferings for the sake of the Lord’s name – even to the death at the cross.
When empathy fails, look up to the cross of Calvary!
The love of God remains a safe anchor for eternity!