Happy Valentine's Day

Remember the kind of Valentine mailboxes we had in grade school?  If you had construction paper, lace doilies, scissors, glue and crayons - you were good to go.  I remember wondering all week what kind of Valentines I would get from each classmate.  I recall the year I received cookies from one boy and chocolates from another.  I was so embarrassed!  Why?  Because there were kids in my class who weren't so fortunate.  I never wanted anyone to feel left out or not have everything I did.  

Looking back, I have always had a heart for those less fortunate.  One of the real lessons from my childhood and church family was to treat everyone with dignity and respect regardless of circumstances.  So as I sat in the den floor making out my Valentines I picked out a special one for each child, not just my best friends or the little boy I had a crush on.  Who would have thought that exercise in diversity and inclusiveness would make me the person I am today?    

At the end of Valentine's Day, my daddy would bring home a box of chocolates with winking eyes on the front.  It was the leftover holiday candy from his Variety Store.  I think his message to me was clear.  You are special and it has nothing to do with Valentine's Day.    It has to do with a Father's love.  It was a simple reminder which is stated in scripture, "We love because he first loved us (1 John 4:19)."

So on this Valentine's Day, remember to show love to ALL of God's children because of his  commandment that teaches us love one another.

Dear God,

Because love is patient…
Help me to be slow to judge, but quick to listen.
Hesitant to criticize, but eager to encourage,
remembering your endless patience with me.

Help me have a heart that is humble and sees the good in others. May I celebrate and appreciate all that I have and all that I am, as well as doing the same for those around me.

Help me stand up for what is right and good. May I defend the defenseless, and help the helpless. Show me how I can make a difference.

Help me to be a refuge for those around me. When the world outside is harsh and cold, may my heart be a place of acceptance and warmth.

Finally, because love always perseveres…
Help my heart continually beat with love for You and others. Thank you for this day when we celebrate love, and for showing us what that word really means. 

Amen.