“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” — Romans 12:15 NIV

When Bill Clinton was running for President of the USA in 1992 he often repeated this phrase to his campaign audiences, “I feel your pain.” He won that election because voters felt like he understood them, he related to them, and he identified with them. Whether he actually did or not, by saying to voters “I feel your pain” he was telling them, I am listening to you.

Not only is that a good communication skill, it’s the way we show value to others and elevate them to an equal level of importance. When we truly listen to people — not just listen to respond — but listen to affirm another’s worth, we can join them where they are, in rejoicing or mourning. We can’t rejoice with others or mourn with others if we are indifferent to them.

Listening allows us to actually hear what another is wanting to share. When we intentionally listen and focus on someone we can’t be self-absorbed with our own thoughts. Listening communicates that we care, and reflecting another’s rejoicing or mourning communicates that we feel for them and acknowledge their value as a human being. Giving your attention to this, is part of what Jesus meant when He said, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”