EVERY DAY IS VALENTINE'S DAY

 

 

There are many stories surrounding St. Valentine. But most agree that—like St. Patrick—St. Valentine was a real person, whose life we celebrate today. According to the Roman Catholic Church, Valentine was a Roman Catholic priest—a Christian martyr who died for his faith and was since canonized by the church to honor and remember him.

In 496 AD Pope Gelasius set February 14th as the date to celebrate St. Valentine’s martyrdom. He was known to have married and assisted Christians in the name of his love for Jesus, giving rise to our practice of focusing on love each February 14.

Now stores sell lacy cards, pink streamers and heart-shaped candies. Florists double the price of flowers and wives fix special dinners for husbands with candles lit and children sent to bed early. Lovers everywhere use the day as an excuse to broadcast their affection to the world.

But the day originally was set aside as a holy day of God’s church.

Getting past the greeting cards that display flying babies with wings, trays filled with chocolate dipped strawberries and tiny hearts munched by the mouthful, St. Valentine’s Day reminds me of Jesus.

Because Jesus is the true author and giver of love. In fact, for those who know Jesus, every day is Valentine’s Day.

Happy Valentine’s Day! Especially to my very own Valentine, Jim.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for your love. Thank you also for the people you place in our lives. Help us love all of them in your name. Amen.

WHAT ABOUT YOU? Any special Valentine's Day plans?