Throne of Grace and Empathy

"for we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are -- yet was without sin.  Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Hebrew 4:14-16 )

When we sin, do we go to our loved ones with confidence? Are we afraid that the person who is supposed to love us will be so angry with us that he or she will reject us?  Or do we trust that we will receive nothing but mercy and grace because this other person understands/empathizes/sympathizes with us? 

The L. A. Times a few weeks had an article on dogs yawn when people around them yawn and the article talks about the ability to empathize and how a solid sense of self is the prerequisite for empathy.  So I like how in verse 14 named our high priest "Jesus, the Son of God"  Solid sense of self!! He doesn't change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17)  Empathy is not a modern idea, invented by people who study psychology.  Our God is the author of empathy.  His solid sense of himself, his being one essence, makes it possible for him to empathize with us.  As we become more solid and have a clear sense of who we are, our ability to empathize will only then increase.  Hollow people can't empathize.

May his mercy and grace make me solid and strong, so my presence may be a mini throne of grace for those in need of help.