Love Deeply

Today is the holiday with which card, candy, and flower companies make a killing on something that will tomorrow be sold at 75% off and a profit will still be made. Yes, I am speaking of the business-created holiday of Valentine’s Day. Now, some of you will automatically assume that I am cynical and bitter. I may be a little cynical at times, but I am not bitter.

I have a heart near to bursting with love. It is simply a different type of love than what one shares with their significant other or spouse. My love is deep for my family, my friends, and most importantly, my Savior. Today I looked at pictures of my precious little cousins Eli and Sophia (http://prayforeli.blogspot.com) and my heart just grows with love for them every time I see them. I spent the day with my brother, who came home for the weekend from Ft. Bragg, and as we said goodbye I wanted to tell him over and over how much I love him. My parents are always there to support and love me and theirs is a love I could never deserve nor repay.

Love comes in many colors. Today, my color of choice was black. Not because I’m a hater of Valentine’s Day, but because I think it is silly to wear pink or red just because it is a “romantic” holiday. Tomorrow, I have no idea what I’ll wear, but once again, it won’t be dictated by a holiday, but by the weather. J When I think about love I see colors like green, blues, purples, and yellows. For some reason I never see reds or pinks. Call me crazy, but love is so much more than one day.

I grew up watching the best example of love anyone could have. My parents. My parents, after 36 years of marriage, still hold hands when they walk in public. They go away for special weekends. They may not buy flowers and candy for each other, but they cook for one another, kiss each other, and re-affirm each other through their words and actions. That is true love. That is love that can’t be summarized in a singing card or fit into a box of chocolate. That is enduring and endearing.

However, the most enduring love we will ever have is that of Jesus. He loved me before I knew Him. He loved me even though I tried to run from Him. I know that He loves me more than any human ever could and He will continue to love me even if everyone else stops loving me. He has given me a new lease on life, a new perspective on joy and a new understanding of love. No matter who I spend my Valentine’s Day with in the future, I know the true, everlasting love is the one who lifted me out of the miry pit and loves me still.

May you experience God’s love in abundance!