"The story of Valentine's Day begins in the third century with an oppressive Roman emperor and a humble Christian Martyr. The emperor was Claudius II. The Christian was Valentinus. Claudius had ordered all Romans to worship twelve gods, and had made it a crime punishable by death to associate with Christians. But Valentinus was dedicated to the ideals of Christ; not even the threat of death could keep him from practicing his beliefs. He was arrested and imprisoned. During the last weeks of Valentinus's life a remarkable thing happened. Seeing that he was a man of learning, the jailer asked whether his daughter, Julia, might be brought to Valentinus for lessons. She had been blind since birth. Julia was a pretty young girl with a quick mind. Valentinus read stories of Rome's history to her. He described the world of nature to her. He taught her arithmetic and told her about God. She saw the world through his eyes, trusted his wisdom, and found comfort in his quiet strength. "Valentinu
showering a significant other with affection and gifts.
A lovely dinner, pretty flowers, jewelry and cards are
all examples of presents one may receive on
Valentine's Day, but none of them compare to the
ultimate gift given to us by God when He sent His
only Son to die for our sins.
As you celebrate Valentine's Day with the one you
love, it is important to keep Christ in your heart and
in your mind.a Christian and faith-based social
media platform, recommends the following six ways
to show Christ the love this Valentine's Day:
1. Make Christ your first love – God commands us
to love Him above anyone else. "Love the Lord your
God with all your heart and with all your soul and
with all your mind." (Matt. 22:37) When you make
Christ your first love, you put Him first before
everyone and everything. On Valentine's Day, you can
put God first by putting Him at the forefront of all you
do. Do you remember the way you desired to please
your significant other when you first met? How eager
you were to make them smile?
Approach your relationship with Christ in the same
manner; strive to make Christ your first love.
2. Love thy neighbor – Loving thy neighbor means
more than simply being kind to those who live next
door. "Thy neighbor" can be anyone and there are
many ways to show love. For example, you can pray
for them. Praying for those around us is a great start
to loving thy neighbor. Make an extra effort to pray
for someone who may not necessarily be your
favorite person, do not let hatred harden your heart.
This Valentine's Day, forgive those who have wronged
you by praying to the Lord that they may receive
many blessings.
3. Spend Time with God – Oftentimes we are so
busy that we do not get to spend alone time with
God. This Valentine's Day, be mindful to slow down
the pace of your day and make room for the Lord.
Whether you wake up and praise God or take time to
worship before bed, invite Him into your space.
4. A valentine for Jesus – Just as you would pick out
a card for your husband or wife; take a moment to
pick out a card for Christ. Jesus loves you and your
Valentine to Christ is another chance for you to tell
Him how much you love Him. Do not limit yourself as
to what you can write. Tell Him all that is in your
heart.
5. Show Love to Strangers – Jesus spent his time
with men and women from all walks of life. He
ventured out into the community and performed
miracles. Jesus did not judge those He met, rather He
showed them love and healed them while spreading
the Word of God. This Valentine's Day, aim to be like
Jesus. Venture out into the community and meet new
people. Remember that every person you meet is a
new opportunity, not only for friendship but to
practice compassion and empathy, as well as spread
the Lord's word.
6. Give to Others – Step out into the community and
volunteer. Donate your time to a worthwhile cause or
put together Valentine's Day blessing bags for those
in need. Practice Christlike qualities, such as
compassion and empathy all while spreading the
Lord's word.
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