Saint Faustina tells us how to take care of others

We can often be so concerned about ourselves and our problems that we fail to see the struggles and needs of those around us, especially those of our own family. Sometimes, because we are so self-consumed, we run the risk of adding unnecessary burdens to those we are called to love and care for. We need to foster true Christ-like empathy and compassion in our hearts for every person we meet (see journal # 117). Do you see the needs of those in your life? Are you aware of their wounds and their burdens? Do you feel when they are sad and overwhelmed? Add to their pain or try to relieve them? Reflect today on the great gift of an empathic and compassionate heart. True Christian empathy is a human response of love for those around us. It is an act of Mercy that we must encourage to lighten the burden of those entrusted to our care.

Lord, help me to have a heart full of true empathy. Help me perceive the struggles and needs of others around me and turn my eyes from myself to the needs they bring. Lord, you are full of compassion. Also help me to be full of compassion for everyone. Jesus I believe in you.