HAPPY VALENTINE’S SEASON!

Love is in the air and it’s the Valentine season!  February 14 is designated Valentine’s Day in honor of a martyred saint or saints with the name Valentin.  The recognition of this saint or saints was first established by Pope Gelasius in 496 AD but was eliminated from the Roman Church calendar of saints in 1969.  While the day was related to romantic love in the high court era of the Middle Ages, sometimes one is tempted to ask how love relates to death and martyrdom.   

In fact, the nature of love, whether it is romantic, sacrificial, or personally defined, has taken on different meaning in our era.  The Federal Courts defeat of the California Proposition 8 demonstrates opposing views to an issue that defines a marital union.  Songs like “What’s Love Got To Do With It” made popular by Tina Turner defines love as nothing more than a “second hand emotion” or an “old fashion notion.”  So, what is love anyway? 

The Word of God clearly differentiates for us the basics of what love is and how it is demonstrated.  There are four words in the Greek used in the New Testament to define love.  Agage, Phileo, Stergo, and Eros are different expressions of what the English translates as Love.  This Sunday we want to take a look at some of these words in the book of First John in an effort to draw our attention again to the true meaning of love.  Come join us as we celebrate the greatness of what love really means. 

And, you are invited to a special service Sunday the 19^th as we celebrate the joy of our Lord just prior to the beginning of the Lenten Season.  There’s always something special happening at our church and you’re always welcome! 

Pastor Marv