Love and Valentine's Day

A Long History

Valentine’s Day has an interesting history, which predates many other holidays. Its first establishment can be traced to a proclamation by Pope Gelasius I in A.D. 496. Its purpose has always been focused upon a time of affection and gift giving between those in relationships. It is called a day of love, although this focus is primarily upon romance.

A Commercial Twist

In modern form, like other holidays, the day has become more commercial, although its original focus of affection still exists. On this day, it is expected that one give flowers, cards, or other gifts to demonstrate their love for another. Some may debate as to the need for such a day, but it appears to be “here to stay” for a long while. Ultimate, Valentine’s Day is considered a day of remembrance of love, and showing demonstrations of love on that special day. However, a much more important remembrance happens not yearly, but on every first day of the week.

True Love

On the first day of the week, Christians remember a demonstration of love unlike the world had ever seen before, nor would see again. While Valentine’s Day focuses upon romance, the first day of the week focuses upon a love stronger than romantic binds and wholly misunderstood by the world. To the world, proving one’s affection requires sacrifice, gifts, and tender words. These things are, however, limited to the physical things the world understands.

Jesus Christ far surpassed such criteria for proving that He loves the world. He demonstrated sacrifice by giving His very life to take sin’s punishment for mankind. He gave to man a wondrous gift through God’s grace that requires only acceptance to experience. He spoke more “tender” words than any classic poet when He entreated us all to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Always Remember

So as the world focuses upon gift giving and reaffirming romance in relationships, let us not forget what true love was shown for all so long ago. The sad reality is that this day can be as much a cause for heartbreak then for joy. For those who are not in a relationship, and especially those who have lost loved ones recently, the world’s shared affection can be painful. In contrast the love Christ showed never fails, never changes, and will never leave one all alone on Valentine’s Day.