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Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day, just in case any of you guys need a reminder! The big day reminds me of candy hearts, also known as conversation hearts. These tiny, heart-shaped sugar candies have been a Valentine’s staple for generations. Their charm? Short, sweet messages that capture the spirit of love. These heart-shaped treats featuring over 30 romantic expressions including “Be Mine,” “Hug Me,” “Love You,” etc.
Most people fall into three camps when it comes to Valentine’s Day. First there are the folks who love it, enjoy planning for it, and spend a lot of money for it. Then there are the folks who just go along with it, making a fair attempt to celebrate it. Finally, there are those who roll their eyes at it, who hate the idea of a made-up holiday that promotes romance and shopping.
However, isn’t it a shame that we don’t celebrate love every day of the year? It’s too easy to take our loved ones for granted. No matter which of the three camps you fall into, I hope you take some time daily to love and appreciate the people who love you!
This Sunday’s scripture may not feel appropriate for a Valentine’s Day reflection, but I think it can be very helpful in understanding God’s love for us. These sayings, or “Beatitudes”, are pronouncements of blessings and woes.
In Luke 6:20-26 we read: Looking at his disciples, Jesus said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. Blessed are you when people hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their ancestors treated the prophets. “But woe to you who are rich, for you have already received your comfort. Woe to you who are well fed now, for you will go hungry. Woe to you who laugh now, for you will mourn and weep. Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.
All of Jesus’ teachings come from a place of grace—pure, unmerited, unearned love. Even his difficult teachings, the ones that make us squirm, offend us, or challenge our worldview—all come from a place of love. Jesus’ words might seem harsh at times, but what if we were to view these words as coming from Jesus’ heart?
The purpose of our life is to live as Jesus lived. That means sharing God’s love with others. The purpose of our life is to do the good works God created us to do. The purpose of our life is to represent Jesus’ character, mission and message to the world. This Valentines Day, what messages are you sending from your heart to others in what you say and do? What is the message you want others to see written on your heart?
In the name of Christ Jesus;
Pastor Dan
Announcements:
· Please join us for a Delicious Lunch in the Fellowship Hall immediately following the service this Sunday!
· First Evangelical Anniversary Planning Committee will meet following worship this Sunday in the Fellowship Hall. If you are interested in helping celebrate our 100th Anniversary in 2026, join us!
· First Evangelical – please pick up your 2024 Giving Statements on the back table. Also, pick up your Giving Envelopes if you haven’t gotten yours yet!
· Holy Cross Annual Congregational Meeting will be rescheduled at a later date.
· We wish you all a very happy Valentine’s Day!
