Valentine’s Day, celebrated globally on February 14, serves as a reminder of love’s many forms, including a spiritual connection for many individuals. In light of this occasion, four local ministers have offered their reflections on love, emphasizing its deeper meanings beyond romantic gestures.
Father Marvin Gyasie of St. Mary’s Catholic Church articulated love as a profound energy connecting souls. He referenced 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, which defines love as patient and kind, devoid of envy or pride. “Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth,” he stated, urging communities to celebrate Valentine’s Day through meaningful actions rather than fleeting moments. “Let’s not be carried away with worldly definitions associated with satisfying sexual pleasures but rather make a difference with a Godly celebration,” he urged, highlighting the pressing need for love in a world often filled with anger and division.
His sentiments were echoed by Tom Potter, minister of Crawford St. United Methodist Church, who quoted Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s famous line, “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” Potter reflected on God’s love as foundational to human experience, asserting that God created the world out of love and established marriage as a sacred institution. He noted, “Ultimately, God decided that He would rather watch His own Son die than to live eternally without you and me.” This portrayal of divine love serves as an inspiration for individuals to express their affection authentically.
Minister Nathaniel Stamper of Westminster Presbyterian Church introduced the idea of vulnerability in love, referencing C.S. Lewis’s insights. He emphasized that “to love is to be vulnerable,” suggesting that true love requires sacrifice. He stressed the importance of being open and exposed in relationships, drawing parallels to the biblical narrative of Adam and Eve. “To save us from our sins, God’s love required Jesus to be broken on the cross,” Stamper explained. His message encourages followers to embody this sacrificial love in their daily lives.
Closing the reflections, Johnny Gibson, minister of Unity Temple Full Gospel Church, offered a heartfelt prayer for Valentine’s Day. He expressed gratitude for the love of God, saying, “Heavenly Father, from whom all blessings flow, we love you. We thank you for who you are in our lives.” Gibson reinforced the message of love as a guiding principle, urging individuals to treat others with kindness and respect. His prayer encapsulated the essence of the day: a call for compassion and understanding among all people.
These ministers collectively highlighted that Valentine’s Day is not merely about romantic expressions but rather an opportunity to reflect on and embrace a broader understanding of love—one that encompasses community, faith, and the divine. As communities prepare for this celebration, their messages serve as a reminder of the grace and depth that love can bring to daily life.
