Dear Church Family,
1 John 4:10 In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent
his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. -ESV
As we approach the month of February, our hearts turn towards the celebration of love, commonly associated with the secular observance of Valentine's Day. While popular culture often reduces this occasion to expressions of romantic love, it is crucial for us, as a faith community, to delve deeper into the roots of this day and uncover the profound legacy of a historical figure, Saint Valentine.
Saint Valentine, a third-century Christian martyr, stands as an inspiring example of zeal and dedication in sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. His commitment to faith and love transcended the temporal and the mundane, making his story a timeless testament to the enduring power of God's love.
One remarkable episode in the life of Saint Valentine was his compassionate act of healing a judge's blind daughter. This miraculous event not only demonstrated Valentine's unwavering faith but also showcased the transformative power of God's love in bringing light to the darkest corners of our lives.
Legend has it that he left a note for the young girl God used him to heal just before he was put to death. This gave rise to the traditions of giving “Valentine’s.”
In a time when the Roman Empire forbade marriages for young men involved in military service, Saint Valentine fearlessly conducted forbidden marriages. He believed in the sanctity of love and marriage, risking his own safety to uphold the divine institution of matrimony. This bold defiance against unjust laws underscores Valentine's commitment to the principles of love and justice rooted in his Christian faith, as well as the sacred bond of Holy Matrimony.
Ultimately, Saint Valentine's story culminates in his martyrdom for refusing to renounce his Christian beliefs. His sacrifice is a poignant reminder of the cost of discipleship and the depth of commitment required to follow Jesus Christ faithfully.
As we reflect on the life of Saint Valentine, let us not succumb to the superficiality of modern celebrations but instead embrace a deeper understanding of love. Valentine's Day, in its true essence, is an opportunity for us to celebrate God's creation of love itself, as manifested in the person of Jesus Christ. His sacrificial love, the ultimate gift to humanity, serves as the model for selfless and unconditional love that we are called to emulate.
In the midst of the commercialized expressions of affection, let us take a moment to remember the profound love that Christ exemplified. As we exchange tokens of love, let us also share the love of Christ with those around us, extending compassion, forgiveness, and grace.
May this Valentine's Day be a celebration not just of romantic love but a reminder of the transformative power of God's love, as demonstrated by Saint Valentine's unwavering commitment to his faith. Let us strive to embody this love in our daily lives, bringing light to the darkest corners and reflecting the true essence of love that emanates from our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Loving you all,
Michael