“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” 1 Corinthians13:4-5,7-8a NIV

Happy Valentine’s Day! That holiday when we celebrate love. If you forgot today was Valentine’s Day…you still have time to get some flowers, a card or candy and celebrate those you love. Today is also the perfect day to remind ourselves of God’s everlasting love for us. And to live that love by letting His love shine through us to others. Be the love you want to see in others.

In earlier verses from 1 Corinthians 13, Paul explains that no matter his calling or his gifts or his service, without love he is nothing. He then goes on to tell us what love is and is not, what love should look like as we interact with others.

We find it easy to love our kids, and yes, even when they become teenagers. (Believe me, you will make it through!) It’s easy to love our friends, and people in our church family and others who love us, too. But sometimes the relationship we need to work on the most is the longest lasting one with our spouse, partner, friend, or “better half.”

I think we all realize, I do, that we tend to take our long term loves for granted. Are we maybe not as patient or slow to anger? Do we tend to keep our own “record of wrongs”, or do we forgive and move on? Do we want our own way or to be put first? Do we always trust and persevere? Kind of tough looking at ourselves, but we have a helper, God, and His example of love.

So, this week let’s “be the love” for that most special person in our lives. Let’s be patient and kind, putting them first. Putting away anger and pride, and gifting forgiveness. Being humble, honoring them, and persevering. Let’s say “thank you” more and “I love you” lots. But most of all, let’s shine God’s love as we love others!

I thank God for each of you! And I thank you for joining me this Valentine’s Day as we become the love for others.

Blessings and love always!