Relationship Series: Do you see me?

Following Jesus teaches us to see and value others through intentional attention, genuine understanding, and compassionate love. As we follow His example, we build deeper, more meaningful relationships.

REVIEW: Slow down

READ: Luke 8:43–44“A woman in the crowd had suffered for twelve years with constant bleeding, and she could find no cure. Coming up behind Jesus, she touched the fringe of his robe. Immediately, the bleeding stopped.”

DISCUSS: What do our daily priorities and distractions reveal about how we value people, and how might they cause us to overlook those who need our attention?

REVIEW: Listen

READ: Luke 8:47“When the woman realized that she could not stay hidden, she began to tremble and fell to her knees in front of him. The whole crowd heard her explain why she had touched him and that she had been immediately healed.”

DISCUSS: How have your listening habits influenced the trust and openness in your relationships, and what might need to change?

REVIEW: Empathize

READ: John 1:47–48“ As they approached, Jesus said, “Now here is a genuine son of Israel—a man of complete integrity.” “How do you know about me?” Nathanael asked. Jesus replied, “I could see you under the fig tree before Philip found you.”

DISCUSS: How do our personal experiences, assumptions, or disagreements influence our ability to show empathy, and what might change if we sought to understand others before judging them?

REVIEW: Respond in love

READ: Luke 8:1–2“He took his twelve disciples with him, along with some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases. Among them were Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons;”

DISCUSS: How do our actions toward people who are overlooked, different from us, or difficult to love reveal the depth of our understanding of Jesus' love?

ASK

Who in your life may not feel seen, heard, or understood by you, and what needs to change in how you approach that relationship?

PRAY

Heavenly Father, thank You for seeing, knowing, and loving us. Help us recognize where distractions, assumptions, or our own priorities prevent us from truly seeing and understanding others. Teach us to slow down, listen with compassion, and respond with empathy and love so that our relationships reflect the heart of Jesus. In His name, Amen.

INVITATION TO RESPOND

The invitation this week is to become more intentional about seeing, understanding, and loving others as Jesus does; here are some ways you can respond:

• Awareness: Ask God to reveal where your priorities, distractions, or personal assumptions may be causing you to overlook others.
• Connection: Intentionally make time for someone you may have neglected, giving them your undivided attention.
• Understanding: Ask thoughtful questions, listen without interruption, and consider their experiences and perspectives without rushing to judgment.
• Compassion: Put love into action by responding to someone's needs with intentional care, encouragement, and kindness.
• Reflection: Journal what God is teaching you about valuing others, share your reflections with someone, and apply what you are learning in your relationships.

As we become more intentional about seeing, hearing, and understanding others, we build relationships that reflect the compassion and love of Jesus.