Years ago, in a cartoon strip named Tumbleweeds, the captain of the fort sent his trusted scout to find out what was up with the Indians in their area. The scout returned, announcing, "Captain, I have lived with the Indians, eaten their food, taken part in their ceremonies and listened to what they say." The captain replied, "What have you to say?" And the scout responded, "Get off our land."

When we truly learn how others live and feel, when we have eaten with them, slept with them and heard their stories, only then can we truly be said to understand them. Like that scout, when we truly understand others, we will begin to identify with them. This is the meaning of the Christ event, the incarnation of God, who willingly offers his life on our behalf.

All through Lent, we have been considerin…