Happy Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day. 

It’s crazy how emotions and expectations can escalate over this holiday – whether positive or negative. It's just a day. But it's not just a day...it's another day.

Perhaps you fall on the not-so-into-the-commercial-holiday side of the fence, if you do, I encourage you to look at this day with a renewed perspective. Instead of viewing it as following the crowd to Hallmark and the florist, perhaps see it as another opportunity the Lord has given to remind us to love our spouse, children, friend, neighbor…and yes…even our enemy (Matthew 22:37-39; Titus 2:4; Matthew 5:43-44)! We all need regular reminders! Rather than get upset at the commercialism, we can thank God for another excuse to “love one another” and “outdo one another in showing honor” Romans 12:10. To “outdo” one another implies we ought to be looking for opportunities, taking each one we can get!

So, does that mean we all have to go buy over-priced cards, flowers, and those nasty chalk-tasting candy hearts? No. But it does mean we ought to be intentional. Be thoughtful. Be creative. That doesn't mean expensive. It means personal. Rather than expecting that special someone to do something sweet or romantic for us, let US be that person to them. Love like Christ, who “did not come to be served, but to serve.” Matthew 20:28.

Instead of hating this holiday, or sulking because it isn’t what we hoped it would be, let's use it as a demonstration of the love of Christ for others! Perhaps that is the reason for the holiday (whether commercialism sees it differently). We must remember that “all things have been created through Him and for Him.” Colossians 1:16 – that includes this day!

*An encouragement to the broken-hearted, hurting and disappointed (and a great and needed reminder of truth for us all!): Let us not forget! Let us rejoice - we have One eagerly awaiting us! One who loves us deeply and is wooing us perfectly…because He is...perfect! Let us listen to His words to us:

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness.” Jeremiah 31:3

“Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love.” John 15:9

“This is my commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.” John 15:12

“As the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so your God will rejoice over you.” Isaiah 62:5

Happy Valentine’s Day! You are deeply loved!