LET US THINK ABOUT OTHERS

Often, we get so caught up in imposing our views on others that we do not pause to listen to them and their perspectives. And sometimes we listen not to understand the other but to reply. Proverbs impart this wisdom, saying, “If one gives an answer before hearing, it is folly and shame.” (Proverbs 18:13).

Everyone has their own point of view on a given issue, but sometimes it seems that no one wants to hear and understand another’s point of view. We look at matters only from our point of view. However, if we do not make the effort to hear and understand others, then we cannot see their pain, suffering, or fears, nor can we see the injustices that they may have experienced. Apostle Paul advised the Philippians: “Let each of you look not to your own interests but to the interests of others. Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:4-5.

Our Lord Jesus Christ exemplified how to care for the needs of others beyond the self. Even on the cross, in the midst of suffering and injustice, Christ was thinking and praying for us. It is not easy to think of others when we are in pain and suffering or when we are experiencing a situation that seems unfair to us. Our immediate reaction is to think about ourselves and then, perhaps, about others. Our Lord Jesus Christ shows a different method which changes us to be more like Him. Only by receiving His wisdom can we first think about the people around us. When we gain His wisdom, then our desire to listen and understand others becomes natural.

Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan