The Empty Rabbit Hutch
Written for Bible Journey Plan. Our editorial standards.
Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
Romans 12:15 KJV
This is an original fictional illustration, not a historical report or an added Bible event.
Olivia's friend came to school quietly. Her pet rabbit had died the night before. Olivia almost began a story about her own dog, but she stopped and sat beside her friend instead.
At lunch, she saved a place at the table. At recess, she walked with her friend around the edge of the playground. She could not bring the rabbit back, and she did not know a sentence that would make everything better.
The Bible teaches us to share in other people's sadness and joy. Being kind does not always mean finding a quick answer. Sometimes it means staying close enough for a person to know they are not forgotten. Olivia's friend still felt sad at the end of the day, but she had not needed to carry the whole school day alone.
A small step for today
You can be happy with a friend who has good news. You can also sit kindly beside someone who is sad. You do not always need a long speech. Listen and let the person know you care. Other people's feelings deserve attention, even when your own day has been very different.
For the grown-up reading along
Paul instructs believers to share one another's joys and sorrows. The verse calls for compassionate fellowship, not an explanation that solves every circumstance.
Read the KJV passage aloud. Explain unfamiliar words in ordinary language without changing the quotation.
Read further: Romans 12 in the King James Bible.