Loving Others Beyond Valentine’s Day

While the world packs away heart decorations and discounts chocolate on February 15th, the spirit of love doesn’t end there. In fact, followers of Christ are called to a much deeper, year-round expression of love. As with Christmas and other holidays, the commercial aspects of Valentine’s Day can be fun, but God’s design for love extends far beyond romantic gestures and candy hearts.

In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Paul reminds us that “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.” This description shows us that true love is action-oriented and constant, not limited to special occasions or dependent on how we feel.

Ultimately, Jesus set the example of this enduring love. In John 13:34-35, He commands us, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples.” This love isn’t meant to be seasonal – it’s meant to be and identifying mark for followers of Christ.

Love Beyond Valentine’s Day

So how do we practice this kind of persistent love? First John 3:18 provides clear direction: “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” This might mean helping a neighbor with yard work in March, bringing a meal to a struggling family in August, offering forgiveness to someone who has hurt us in November or shoveling a driveway or two when a freak snowstorm hits. Loving others goes beyond Valentine’s Day. It is a year round action.

The early church demonstrated this daily commitment to loving others. Acts 2:44-45 tells us, “All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” Their love wasn’t confined to special dates on the calendar – it was woven into the fabric of their daily lives.

Conclusion

As we move beyond Valentine’s Day, let’s remember that we are called to show Christ’s love in practical ways throughout the year. Whether it’s through acts of service, words of encouragement, or sacrificial giving, we have countless opportunities to demonstrate that God’s love knows no season. After all, as 1 John 4:19 reminds us, “We love because he first loved us.” That’s a truth worth celebrating every single day.

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