The original St. Valentinus was martyred for his faith in Christ somewhere around 275AD. A British novelist a thousand years later said it was around the same time of year as the birds began mating and making nests in the Spring. Then the power of marketing and branding took over and chocolate makers and florists made it into Valentine’s Day.
Brother – if you’re married or dating a woman – do something. In fact, almost anything is better than nothing. Except for that annoying little bear with a heart balloon, they sell for $7 at the counter of your local convenience store … that would be a mistake, trust me.
But what of St. Valentinus? A man who stood for righteousness – a man for whom the love of God was worth more than his love of life itself.
The Word teaches us that true love is being willing to lay down our lives for another. That love is the desire to care for others, even at your own expense. That leading men to faith in Christ is the highest calling on our lives. That love conquers everything.
And my friend - look at your brothers, the men around you. This weekend of Valentine's might just be the toughest day of a friend’s life – the day he will face things alone, perhaps for the first time. For that man who has been single too long – it’s not an easy time. Include him … hit him with a note, a call – be his brother.
We are our brothers’ keeper. This is what we do, because this is who we are.
And for those who are married or dating … make it about love and giving and serving and honoring the one you love. Be present for them. Be boldly in love.
In this adventure of manhood let’s be the man who loves others with the love of God.
No one will remember your chocolate – but they will remember your love.
