Just a few minutes ago, I asked a couple what they were doing for Valentine’s Day. He gave a sheepish grin. She smiled and said, “He forgot to book a restaurant—but I didn’t expect him to remember.”

Without missing a beat, he added, “I’m going to grab some steaks and put them on the grill as soon as we’re done talking.”

We all laughed. And honestly, I really think they’re just fine.

Valentine’s Day is usually remembered for cards, candy, flowers, and an evening meal at your favorite restaurant. There’s a White Castle in the next city over. Think of Krystal’s if you live in the South. It goes all out with decorations for a romantic evening, if your appetite leans toward sliders.

I gave Becky a dozen roses with calla lilies for Valentine’s Day. It brings me so much joy to give to her. I love her touch. I love her kisses. I love sitting with her while we read together. I love her passion and enthusiasm for life. I love the way she makes a house a home. I love her wit and wisdom. I love that she is beautiful. I love the care she takes of herself. I love the creativity she brings to everything she touches. I love that she is still eager for new adventures. I love her faith in the Lord. I love the way she loves our children and grandchildren. I love how she welcomes people into our home for fellowship and meals. I love her selflessness. I love that she had an idea and built a successful business. I am truly hers.

This week I tried to read an article from one of our major newspapers about special Valentine’s gifts. Love wasn’t the topic at all. I found it so disappointing that I simply closed the article. How sad that the authors so completely misunderstood what Valentine’s Day is meant to be about.

The holiday takes its name from a priest named Valentine. Most of my readers know his story. He was put to death around AD 270. Before his execution, he wrote a letter to his jailer’s daughter—someone he loved—and signed it, “from your Valentine.”

Over time, this day became a reminder that love is willing to give itself, even unto death. Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate love in its truest sense.

From the beginning—from Genesis—God placed within the human heart a deep need to love and to be loved. That longing will always be part of who we are. I am profoundly thankful for that. I am also deeply grateful for the shared life of love Becky and I have been given by God.

The Bible tells us what love does in 1 Corinthians 13. But the Bible shows us how to love in the life of Christ. Here are just a few things I love about Jesus: He was consistently faithful and true. He gave people the freedom to become their truest selves as they trusted Him. He forgave. He affirmed. He gave second chances. And ultimately, He gave His life to save us.

How can you and I better show love to those around us?

Peace