Discipleship Guide: Week 4 - Rev. Nancy Johnston Varden
- Jun 29
- 2 min read
Empathy reminds us of our shared humanity and divine origin. We are all made in the image of God. When we practice empathy, we honor that image in ourselves and in others. This final week, we’ll reflect on how empathy deepens our relationships and connects us in the sacred web of God’s creation.
Rev. Nancy Johnston Varden
Scripture Focus: Ephesians 2: 8-10
1. What does it mean to you that you are made in the image of God? How should we as a congregation/community reflect the image of God in each of us and how do we notice the image of God in each other and in our neighbors?
2. We learn that the imago Dei is what author Lucy Peppiatt calls the “great leveling doctrine.” It puts everyone everywhere at all times on the same playing field, proclaiming, “You are loved!” How does that doctrine inform your understanding of your own worth and beauty? How about the worth and beauty of others?
3. One translation of Ephesians 2:10 says, “We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…” If you are God’s handiwork or made in his image what are works that we should be taking on? Is mercy work in the form of service and justice work a calling that you have witnessed or experienced?
4. When you engaged in service or justice work, how did you regard those who you served?
5. Empathy is closely linked to love and compassion. We need the Holy Spirit to help restore in us love and compassion so that we can join the ‘sacred dance’ lovingly ministering healing in the name of Jesus. How might this work begin for you or your community of faith? Does restoration seem close at hand or far away?
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