Empathy vs Sympathy by Brene Brown
How should you care for a friend who is in a dark place? A beautifully animated explanation of the difference between superficial, judgmental sympathy, and deep, connecting empathy. Dr Brene Brown is a researcher and storyteller who studies human behaviour and is an expert in vulnerability. This video should be compulsory viewing for all pastors, and maybe all Christians.

Speaking of empathy, the new Pope has certainly struck a chord with the world, known for his identification with the poor and lowly—for having, you guessed it, empathy for people. This Washington Post article argues that if you like Pope Francis, then you’ll love Jesus even more…

“Without Jesus, there is no Pope Francis. If Francis’s embrace of the disabled, his focus on the poor and his mercy for the sinner sound vaguely familiar, that’s because you’ve heard them before. From that Jesus guy.” Read the rest here.

Another figure loved by the public for his humility was Nelson Mandela. He featured prominently in the line-up of ‘famous people who died in 2013’ in this visual summary of 2013 by Mario Zucca. It seems like famous dead people and new gadgets/games, Miley Cyrus and same sex marriage are the preoccupations of this illustrator, and perhaps the West more generally–something to ponder, perhaps.

By Mario Zucca

 A more Jesus-oriented series of illustrations is the stunning Messiah series by No More Stone Heart. In the lead up to Christmas she has drawn 25 illustrations based on Handel’s Messiah. Take a look and be inspired, encouraged and reminded of Jesus’ wonderful entry into this world.

All of us here at Eternity wish you a joyous and peaceful Christmas celebrating the birth of our glorious Saviour! x