The Lenten series this year focuses on our ability to meet Jesus in some more active way than a 'head trip'. The hope is that we will develop an encounter which will involve the heart. Now that is a bit difficult for twenty first century persons who have no physical relation to the man, Jesus, and no second hand, even, information. Some of us have had what we claim is a religious experience which seems to reveal information about God's will for us, but many of us have not had such experiences. Does that mean that we are doomed? Not in my humble opinion, nor in the opinion of many others. Teresa of Avila put it this way: "We cannot know whether we love God, although there may be strong reason for thinking so; but there can be no doubt about whether we love our neighbor or not. Be sure that, in proportion as you advance in affection for sisters and brothers, you are increasing your love of God." To love God is to love our neighbor. If we desire more than a superficial relation with God we will become a better listener, more vulnerable person, build relationships with the other, be more giving, more open. These are all social skills that we have acquired.  Now we apply them not just our family and loved ones, but in relation to those who may not appear to be lovable. Even the unlovely, and perhaps the unsafe, are our sisters and brothers. Caution is sometimes advised, but remember they too are children of God and they too need our love and can give us love in return. - Ann Drake