One of the joys for me of holiday time is the space to read. As soon as one book is finished, another is selected from the pile to start something new. I enjoy following the real and fictional life stories of different people and how they cope with the ups and downs that life presents them with. I find that for me “rest” comes from the pure escapism into another person or characters world, and how that feels. I find reading, be it fictional or non-fiction, is a way in which to expand and explore and practice empathy – the ability to walk a little in someone else’s shoes.
Empathy is a key way of living, connecting and relating as humans. As the fires burned in France, Spain, Canada and the UK after one of the hottest summers on record, who could not feel empathy for all those who have been impacted directly by the chaos and fear that they have brought? On the other side of the coin, empathy can also teach how to share the joys and excitement of others, that way in which we can genuinely feel glad at other’s achievements, hopes and dreams, being able to delight with them.
In the gospel reading this week, a woman approaches Jesus and say’s “Have mercy on me, Lord”. She appeals to his empathy, a desire for him to know her world and her needs. At first Jesus appears to ignore her, but her persistence and challenge to Jesus to see her and help her are finally answered. Her story is one of many, ones in which we can step into her shoes and ask – What would I do? How would this make me feel and act? And it is again one of many where Jesus meets that need with compassion and grace. May we also know that compassion and build on our own empathy through knowing other people’s stories and the paths that they walk.
Services this Sunday – 16th August 2026
10am – Sung Holy Communion – St Mary’s
10:30am – Holy Communion with Hymns – All Saints
The Week Ahead
Wed 19th Aug
9:00am – Celtic Morning Prayer, All Saints
2:00pm – Bible Book Club
Thu 20th Aug
10:00am – Holy Communion, St Mary’s
Fri 21st Aug
11:00am – Living after Loss, St Mary’s
Sat 22nd Aug
12:00pm Saturday Lunches, St Mary’s
Sun 23rd Aug
8:00am – Holy Communion, All Saints
10:00am – Holy Communion, St Mary’s
10:30am – Café Church, All Saints
Revd Lizzie
St Mary's, Fishponds 