Love Is In The Air

Valentine cards are on display. Stuffed animals line the shelves next to heart-shaped boxes of candy waiting to be chosen. Special candle light dinners are being prepared and gifts are being wrapped. Yes, love is in the air.

Today, February 14th marks one day each year focused on expressing our love to those we care about, those we hold dear. It’s a day to slow down and spend quality time, a day to remember where our love began and celebrate where it has come as we make memories expressing deep feelings of the heart.

In this culture, we’re good at celebrating at every opportunity. We plan ahead, purchase what we need and execute said plan. We hug those we love. Then we frame the photos and scrapbook the memorabilia. So, don’t miss your opportunity. Go spread the love.

But, this Valentine’s Day also comes on Sunday, the Sabbath Day. Songs and sermons will focus on loving each other and loving the Lord.

John 15:12-13 says…

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no man that he lay down his life for his friends.” (NIV)

We’re good at loving others and we know He made the ultimate sacrifice by laying down His life for us. But, the chaos of our lives can hamper un-kindled spiritual fervor. A scripture in Revelations reminds us about not forgetting our first love.

Do you remember when your relationship with the Lord was new, exciting and all-consuming? When you couldn’t devour enough scripture or pray enough? On this day when love is being celebrated, is your relationship with the Lord as exciting today as it was when you accepted Him as your Savior?

He is the same yesterday, today and forever…so if things are stale between you and the Lord…it’s on your end of the relationship. But, don’t despair, there’s an easy remedy for this. Draw close to Him today, express your heart and be restored to your first love. He waits with our-stretched arms.

As Christians, we have a grand opportunity to show love on this Valentine’s Day to those who’ve stolen our hearts…and also on this Sunday…to the one who gave Himself that we may have the relationships we celebrate today. For after all…God is love and in matters of the heart…it all started with Him.

What Valentine reminder of God’s love do you remember most?