When I woke up this morning, I realized today is Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day as we know it is celebrated on today, Monday, February 14 and is considered a day of expressing love. Couples all around the world look forward to it being a special day devoted to each other, sharing gifts, chocolates, cards, valentines, letters, etc. Take time today to let those special persons in your life know that you love them unconditionally. Today is an opportunity for us to shine in the presence of the person we have been married to for whatever the amount of time is. Or use it as an opportunity to let that person you may have your romantic eyes glued to know that you have special feelings for them. I can remember when I was in elementary school, we used Valentine’s Day to let a girl know that we were interested in them. The question that many of us may remember was on a homemade card or one made in art class that asked, “Will you be my valentine?”  Too often the answer was no!

According to historical records, the day is named after a saint, St Valentine. Valentine was declared a saint by the Roman Catholic Church and died approximately in 270 AD. He is also thought to have been a priest who assisted Christian couples in secretly marrying each other. It is believed he was killed by the emperor at that time because it was forbidden for males to marry, for he believed unmarried men were more dedicated to being troops. Valentine was opposed to the practice. If you take time to research the beginning of Valentine’s Day, you will find that there are many theories about St. Valentine.

To be honest with you, I never paid too much attention to Valentine’s Day over the years. For some reason I feel excited about doing something special for my wife today. Could it be age is upon me or could it be the pandemic that has changed our ideals and thought patterns. Well, I do remember when I was trying to woo my girlfriend years ago, who is now my wife by giving her flowers and a box of chocolate candy, only to find out later that she does not care that much for chocolate candy. I was so thankful that she informed me, for I believe that if you are going to give a gift, give one that the person will appreciate. So, over the years I stuck to giving her flowers. Traditionally, gifts have included candy, flowers, particularly red roses, as a symbol of beauty and love. Some even take the time to plan a special meal or visit favorite restaurant.                 

I am so glad that the holiday has expanded to expressions of affection among relatives and friends. I guess I am a little excited about today because I will be calling my family members and friends to let them know that I do indeed love them, male and female. It is also a good feeling to have your children wake up and simply say, Happy Valentine’s Day. It also helps if they are adults because they can help figure out the best gift to give. Yes, I have already gotten my gift and ready to present it to her. What about you? I am surprised at myself.

There is something about that word love that gives you a good feeling. I can appreciate 1 Corinthians 13:4-5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others; it is not self-seeking. It is not easily angered; it keeps no record of wrongs.” As we read the above passage, let us pray that Christ who is in us will cause us to be able to love like he loves. I love the part that says it keeps no record. I am sure all of us have made some mistakes in our relationships, but it is wonderful to be able to forgive reconcile and move on, but it does no good to keep records on each other.    

Song of Solomon says, “Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot wash it away.” It is truly a good feeling to love and be loved.  

We are living in some unprecedented times, and now would be a great time to let someone know that you genuinely and unconditionally love them. With so much hatred being displayed, so much killing, why not use this day to spread some love in your home, community, etc.? Do something special for a special person(s) in your life today.

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” Martin Luther King, Jr. 

Not a sermon, just my thoughts!

Robert Earl Slade, Pastor