A Day for Love

In the States, Valentine's Day is a big deal, but it's not a real holiday. It's an opportunity in our capitalistic society for businesses to sell a lot of goods and boost their sales and revenue. That is one reason I didn't get emotional most years as a single person on Valentine's Day. I made little of its significance. 

I admit, it bothers me how a day like any other day can lead young women to struggle and doubt God's timing and provision of a mate. It seems to be a stumbling block. Depression is a sin and this kind of holiday naturally lends itself to discourage a large group of people: some good, godly people who want a good thing. 

From what I've said, you may think I hate Valentine's Day, but that's not entirely accurate either. I like having special days to celebrate, so we don't get lazy, so we remember to be intentional on the other days. I guess you could say I wish Valentine's Day wasn't reserved only for romantic love. I wish it was a day to celebrate brotherly love as well. That we might respond to the day with an effort to show love to any and all of the ones we love...like we did as children in elementary school.

I remember the cheap little valentine's cards we'd put in other children's envelopes at school with a little candy. We'd write little messages to our friends and let them know we cared. It was a sweet thing and I looked forward to those days.

This year, I've been thinking about starting a new tradition with Matt. I haven't mentioned it to him yet :), but I'd like for us to begin writing love letters for Valentine's Day each year: One to the Lord and one to each other. The idea is that we would seal and save the ones to the Lord and open the ones to each other. When our children are old enough one day, I'd like them to begin the practice so that on days in adulthood while they are waiting for their spouses they will be dwelling on their love for the Lord (and His for them) rather than being overtaken with sadness. At least, that's my hope.

As we have children, I'd like us both to begin writing love letters to them each year. I see it as a wonderful opportunity to encourage them at a time when they may doubt whether or not they are loved.

What do you think of Valentine's Day?