This week many of us will celebrate Valentine’s Day. We will spend way too much money on cards, flowers, and a special dinner. Most spouses or girlfriends will appreciate the special attention they receive on that special day. But what about the other 364 days of the year? My years of working as a marriage and family therapist suggests one day is not enough.
The word most often used in Scripture for “love” is “agape.” It is a verb. It is a commitment to sacrificing my needs in the best interest of the other person. Jesus said it this way: “Greater love has no one than to lay down one’s life for a friend.” (John 15:13). Jesus spoke these words hours before He would go to the cross, knowing what He was facing, He spent his last hours comforting and praying for His disciples. On the cross Jesus made sure his mom would be taken care of. In the midst of His unimaginable suffering, He even prayed for His murderers. That is what love looks like!
I think Jesus was able to unwaveringly practice love because of who He was/is. Most likely, none of us will be asked to demonstrate the infinite love that Jesus did, but He does demand that we love sacrificially. Much of the epistles of John focus on the command to love our brothers and sisters. In fact, John suggested that if we do not love our brothers then we are still dead, not alive in Christ. Love is the evidence that we belong to Christ.
So, what does this have to do with Valentine’s Day? I think it is awesome to celebrate a special day of pampering those we love. But I also know that it has to be a continual act for relationships to thrive. Paul gave us a great litmus test in 1 Cor 13: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails.” We hear this passage at weddings, and too often, we put it away until the next wedding. I think it is a great passage to review every day to see how we are doing with our loved ones.
The word “love” has always had special meaning for me. I was 28 years old before I ever said, “I love you” in a romantic sense to anyone, and that was to Kathy. I was unwilling to use that word until I knew that I was ready to lay down my life for her. As much as I love her, there is one I love more – Jesus. We often tell Jesus that we love Him, but do we demonstrate sacrificial love for Him? Our love is marked by loving others and obeying His commands. So, while we celebrate Valentine’s Day, let’s not forget the author of love. I am reminded that I am the bride of Christ looking forward to the great wedding feast at the end of time. So, forgive me, Kathy, for sharing my love with another. Jesus, won’t you be my valentine?
Blessings,
Pastor Doug