A Valentine's Day Reflection

Valentine's Day is often associated with romantic love, but at its core, love is much more than a fleeting emotion between two people. Love is the essence of God and what He calls us to embody. As 1 John 4:8 reminds us, "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." This Valentine's Day, let us expand our understanding of love beyond mere sentiment and embrace a love that reflects God's heart. This love reaches out to those around us in kindness, compassion, and service.

Love is More Than a Feeling—It is an Action

Jesus Christ showed us that love is not just an emotion but a choice and an action. Love is best demonstrated in how we treat others and how we speak, serve, and sacrifice. In John 13:34-35, Jesus commands us, saying, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another."

Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to reflect on this command. Instead of focusing solely on receiving love, we should look for ways to give it. The joy of giving love, especially to those who need it most—family, friends, coworkers, neighbors—can bring a deep sense of fulfillment and contentment.

Loving Through Kindness

One of the simplest yet most powerful ways to show love is through kindness. A kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or a helping hand can brighten someone's Day and remind them that they matter. It's a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact, empowering us to make a difference in the lives of others.

Consider sending an encouraging message to a friend, expressing appreciation to a coworker, or listening to someone who needs support. Even a smile or a heartfelt "thank you" can go a long way in lifting someone's spirits.

Loving Through Service

Jesus modeled selfless love through His acts of service. In Matthew 20:28, He said, "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Serving others is one of the most powerful expressions of love.

Think about how you can serve those around you this Valentine's Day. Is there an elderly neighbor who could use some help with groceries? A struggling family who could benefit from a meal? A lonely person who needs companionship? Acts of service, big or small, reflect God's love in action.

Loving Through Forgiveness

Love also manifests in forgiveness. Holding onto bitterness or resentment robs us of peace and distances us from God's will. Colossians 3:13 urges us, "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

If there is someone you need to forgive this Valentine's Day, take a step toward reconciliation. Let go of past hurts and embrace the freedom from extending grace. Forgiveness is a path to liberation and peace, as love keeps no record of wrongs (1 Corinthians 13:5).

Loving Through Prayer

Finally, one of the most profound ways to show love is by praying for others. Prayer invites God's presence into their lives and strengthens them in ways we cannot. James 5:16 reminds us, "The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."

Take a moment today to pray for those around you—family members, friends, even those who are difficult to love. Ask God to bless them, guide them, and fill their hearts with His love.

A Call to Love Beyond Valentine's Day

While Valentine's Day is a beautiful occasion to express love, our call to love extends beyond just one Day. Love should define every aspect of our lives. Let us commit to living out 1 Corinthians 16:14: "Do everything in love."

May this Valentine's Day be a reminder to love intentionally, serve selflessly, forgive freely, and pray fervently. In doing so, we reflect the greatest love of all—the love of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Happy Valentine's Day! May your heart be filled with His love, and may you share that love with those around you.

Just a Thought

Pastor Randy C. Nash