After reading it, I realized how far off base our culture is! Maybe I'm cynical (actual, I definitely am) but how crazy is it that on a martyred Saint's day we all celebrate with roses and expensive chocolates or dinners out that cost twice as much as they would on any other day?
(going on a little rant here, but hang in there, it gets better)
Don't get me wrong, I'm as romantic as the next girl. I love getting flowers from Christopher Robin(hint-hint dear) and I also love chocolate, bubble baths, yummy dinners out, and going to see a good movie. However, I do not love the commercialism and capitalism that leads up to all of these activities on Valentine's Day. And, I have NEVER given a single thought to any poor unknown martyred saint while indulging in said Valentine activities. Have you?
That being said, today, my mom and step dad have offered to take the kids so that Christopher Robin and I can spend some time reconnecting. It's been years since we've had a date night on Valentine's Day, and since I am a product of my culture, it somehow seems more meaningful that we are getting our date night on this "special" day verses, oh.. say...yesterday, for example. I also can't help but feel a little pressure to do something today that is different from what we would normally do on a date night.
It is that feeling that prompted this post. Why do we put pressure on ourselves like that? So that when we go to work or to see our friend we can say, "Guess what we did on Valentine's Day?" Or, so that we can compare who got the most cards when we are in middle school? Why do we feel the need to show the world through cards or chocolates or extravagant superficial acts of affection that we are loved?
As I ponder these questions, the only thought that is running through my mind is,
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life."
Wow. I've known that for most of my life, but this morning, I thought about it a little differently than I normally do. That is the ultimate gift of love. None of us can even come close. Yet, God is our example, the light up to which we hold our actions and thoughts. He loves you and me always, unconditionally, and gives us His gift of love every day.
God gives us sunrises, sunsets, rainbows and many, many other beautiful and amazing things that he knows are special to each of us. But here is the real deal:
Today, whether you have a "Valentine" here on earth or not, remember that God is your Valentine always and forever and He has a special gift for you. Eternal Life!
Happy Valentine's Day!
Love, Kim
Happy Valentine's Day!
Love, Kim
