Valentine

Yes, it’s that time of year again.  It’s a day of so many expectations of whether someone special will surprise them with that bouquet of flowers, a special dinner at a cozy restaurant or maybe just an acknowledgement with a heartfelt card and speaking those three special words, “I love you.”  My parents were married on Valentine’s Day, only weeks before my father was to be deployed overseas during WWII, back in 1943.  It wasn’t a big fancy wedding like my husband and I planned so many years later, but nevertheless, it must have been a day filled with love, hope and expectations.  I’ve still gaze at their wedding picture, always thinking that getting married on Valentine’s Day was very romantic. But even past all the hearts, romance and significance of where this day began with honoring St. Valentine and his story, I wanted more of a connection.  Here’s what I discovered.  Question:  What does Valentine mean in the Bible?  “The word ‘valentine’ comes from the Latin word ‘valens’, which means ‘worthy, strong, or powerful.’  In the Bible, the word valentine is used about God’s love for us.  He is the ultimate Valentine who loved us so much that He gave His son, Jesus, to die for our sins.”   I love that!  God is our ultimate Valentine.  He sends us a bouquet of flowers every day, even though we may not notice and say thank you.  He blesses us with food on our table or others to watch over us when we may not be able to care for ourselves.  And most importantly, He is constantly telling you and me that “I love you.”  Valentine’s Day is a special day to show the people around us that we care for them in little ways.  However, tomorrow always comes and that same love and admiration needs to continue to those we love.  It’s what the word means – being worthy and strong in God’s eyes, showing our love, more than one day a year and making those around us feel special and needed.  As far as I’m concerned, I’m thankful that my #1 Valentine is God himself.  He is my constant every day.  “There is nothing (more) I shall want.”

“Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.”  1 John 4:8