In order to understand others' life stories, we must first be filled with the love of God, for it is His love that binds us all together in perfect harmony. Let us remember that our Lord Jesus Christ taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves, and that includes understanding and empathizing with their journeys.
As it is written in Philippians 2:3-4 WEB: "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Look not to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."
To truly understand others, we must put aside our own prejudices and selfish desires, and instead, embrace humility and compassion. We should strive to be quick to listen and slow to speak, as James 1:19 WEB teaches us: "So then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger".
Let us pray together.
Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, we come before You, asking for the grace to understand the life stories of those around us. Help us to see others through Your eyes, eyes of love, compassion, and forgiveness. Break down the walls of prejudice and selfishness in our hearts, and replace them with empathy and kindness.
Lord Jesus, You understood the hearts of men and always had a righteous response to all people. You looked past their situations and into their hearts having compassion. Help us to be more like You.
Grant us the wisdom to know when to speak and when to listen, and give us such a love that we would place the interests of others above our own. May we be united by this love and be the witness to all people that we are Your disciples.
Father, we ask this in the name of Your precious Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.