“Valentine Love for Everyone”
By Sandra Fischer

Valentine’s Day gives us an opportunity to send cards to those we love. I recall during my days in elementary school, every class member was expected to make or buy Valentine's cards to give to everyone in the class—regardless of how we felt about them. So, I gave one to the boy who sat behind me and pulled my pigtails, to the girl who told the teacher I chewed gum at recess, and to the one who threw paper wads at me when the teacher wasn’t looking.

Today I am still called to show love to everyone, not because it’s the Valentine thing to do, but as a follower of Christ, I am commanded to. He said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, love your neighbor as yourself.” Luke 10:27 (NIV) He defined “neighbor” in the parable of the good Samaritan as being anyone needing mercy. Doesn’t everyone?

In Matthew 5:43:44 (NIV), he carried the commandment even further. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” How can he ask us to do such a thing? Because he demonstrated what true love is—yes, Jesus showed the greatest expression of love by stretching out his arms on a cross that encompassed the world. Through his death, burial and resurrection, his act of love allows anyone who receives his “Valentine” to be forgiven of their sins, reconciled to God, the Father, and inherit eternal life. For me, it means I’m still expected to give that kind of “Valentine” to everyone.

Lord, help me to show the love Christ has shown to me.

Sandra is a Faithwriters Platinum member and author of the book, “Seasons in the Garden.” Contact

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