I remember several years ago when I was in grade school, most of the kids in my class would give a small Valentine card to many of their classmates in their home room and to some of their close friends in other classes. It was a time when even some of us who weren’t friends still passed this small token of affection and friendship to those around us. It was the nice thing to do, and we were taught by our parents and teachers to love everyone, even the unlovable.
As I grew older and the small Valentines disappeared and the larger and more affectionate cards became something that we only gave to a few, usually it was someone who we cared for in a loving way and wanted their attention. Not only did we give larger cards, but we bought candy in heart shaped boxes and when we really wanted to make a splash, we gave red roses to the young lady that was special to our heart.
Valentine’s Day was a special time for us, and we showed how much we cared for those we really wanted to impress. After my wife and I were married the gifts of love meant so much more to give and receive because she was the only one that had my full attention and my continuous, unwavering love. For over five decades this has been a yearly tradition for us.
It is sad in these current days that many people who pledge their lives to each other, “unto death till parts us,” pay no attention to these vows and continue in the ways of the world. So many in the world today pay more attention in distributing their affection to their significant other based on lust and sexual intimacy than giving and receiving each other’s heart. Lust and sexual gratification fade in time but true love always prevails.
One only needs to read and understand what the Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians, chapter 13, especially the beginning words of verse eight; “Love never fails…” Remembering back to my grade school years again, I remember that some of the students didn’t receive valentines from their classmates because of dislike on the part of the giver. Much of the reasoning for not sharing was misunderstanding. It is my hope that this Valentine’s Day you will share a card, send flowers, or give candy to that special someone in your life and share the love that God intends for us to pass around. Let’s get away from the worldly affections and look and seek what God wants us to do and love all of those around us.
Prayer: Father, I praise you and thank you for my wife and the love we have shared over the last five decades. I pray that others will look to you for guidance and a heart full of love when selecting a lifetime mate. Amen.
