On This Hill #4 - I Feel Ya

In this episode of On This Hill, we’re diving into the cultural obsession with empathy—why everyone’s saying “I feel ya,” and how that’s become the emotional equivalent of a crying-while-clenching emoji. Empathy is everywhere. It’s our go-to for expressing care, whether it’s saying “same” or absorbing someone’s trauma like we’re human Wi-Fi signals.

But here’s the twist: Christian compassion isn’t the same thing.

Empathy says, “I’ll feel what you feel.”
Compassion says, “I’ll stay with you, act in love, and not lose myself in the process.”

Jesus didn’t sponge up people’s emotions—he saw them, loved them, acted. He wept with people, not as people. That’s the heart of Christian compassion: presence with purpose. Not emotional burnout. Not fixing. Just real, gritty, grounded love.

So maybe the goal isn’t to be an emotional chameleon. Maybe it’s to sit in the awkward silence and say, “I’m not here to fix you. I’m here to be with you—and if you need bourbon, I brought some.” That’s not just empathy. That’s compassion. With bourbon. And let’s be honest—everything’s better with bourbon.

💡 Why You Should Listen
If you’re over the syrupy sentimentality and looking for conversations that respect both your intelligence and your spirit, this episode’s for you. This isn’t just a chat—it’s a challenge to live with grounded faith, honest relationships, and a mission that actually means something.

We also take prayer requests. Seriously.

📬 Get Involved – Value for Value
This podcast runs on a “value for value” model. That means if you get value from this episode, consider giving value back—through your time, talent, treasure, or even just a thoughtful email. You’re not just a listener; you’re part of the mission.

Visit onthishill.org or email us at [email protected].

Prayers included. Server costs appreciated.