A bit different post today…

Friday was Valentine’s Day – hearts, flowers, chocolates, and romance. Yet we live in times where hearts are broken, flowers are threatened, and feelings of loneliness and fear are pervasive. Saint Valentine lived in similar times back in the mid 200s.

In the 3rd century the Roman Empire was in crisis – economic problems, political crisis, civil war, and for many Christians martyrdom. Though details are at times vague, Saint Valentine lived with, encouraged, and protected those who were persecuted. In the end he was martyred for his efforts. We need Saint Valentine today.

We humans struggle with our insecurities. When we feel unaccepted, or feel we don’t measure up we become defensive or even depressed. Many psychologists contend that insecurity is at the root of most of our problems in life and with each other. During my years as a coach and consultant I learned that the harder a person works to show how confident or right they are, the more insecure they actually are – a truly secure person does not have to prove it. The critical world we live in feeds our insecurities daily, it is no wonder we become stressed.

There is another variety of insecurity that is the result of impending danger and uncertainty about the future. I read too much news I am sure, but it does make me frightened and feeling quite small at times – climate issues, world conflicts, political divisiveness and anger – the uncertainty is immense.

Saint Valentine preached love. His message was not about heart shaped boxes of candy, or overpriced bundles of roses. His was a message about love that is a choice to care for and accept someone, not based on what they do in return. We need that kind of love today.

We need our friends and family more than ever these days. We need to remind them that we are there for them. We need to acknowledge the good in each other and build them up. We can grasp on to a bit of hope knowing that we are not alone in the struggle.

I have never been a fan of Hallmark movies with their sappy endings, yet they all have the scene where someone realizes they don’t tell the people that matter to them how much they care – that they love them. Psychologically that makes good sense. Like all of us I struggle with insecurities, what gets me through it all is knowing there are people who do love and accept me, I need to be sure to return the favor.

So Happy Valentine’s Day, I wish you grace and peace in all you do. Let’s share the word.