Beloved, let us love one another,
because love is from God:
everyone who loves
is born of God and knows God
1 John 4:7
I do not know if anyone else noticed this, but it seemed like right after Christmas stores began to display decorations for Valentine’s Day. I know this happens every year, but this year it just seemed so quick.
February gets wrapped in flowers, cards, sweet words, and chocolate! A very welcome reprieve from the dead of winter, especially this winter. These outward gifts and gestures of love are important and fun! It is important to remind people in our lives that they are loved by acknowledging them on this special day. It is predicted Americans will spend over $25 billion dollars on Valentine’s Day this year, that is up from the figure of $14 billion in 2025. People want to give joy, and that is super encouraging!
As people of faith, we are called to look deeper than a “Valentine’s Day” kind of love. We are called to look beyond romance, to a love that grounds us in this life. As people of faith, we know love is not simply a feeling but a way of being. If love begins with God we will carry that love into our homes, our neighborhoods, our church. A love that begins in God means our love will also radiate to those who may be difficult to love.
Jesus taught us the greatest commandment is love, this love shows itself when we are compassionate, patient, forgiving, and courageous. This kind of love is present even when there are disagreements and pain. This kind of love chooses kindness.
We may not get this kind of love perfect every day, but we can strive for it, we can ask God to help us be a loving presence.
This year as we enter into our season of Lent, instead of giving something up, let us take something on; more love!
♩ ♩ What the world needs now is love sweet love… ♩ ♩
Many blessings to you all,
Pastor Val