Larry VanHouse
This Little Light of Mine
When I think of Valentine’s Day, I confess I get a bit uncomfortable, “squirmish” even. While I don’t want to come off as a curmudgeon or shy away from spoiling my wife on Valentine’s Day, I believe there’s more to this holiday than just chocolates, flowers, heartfelt notes, and fancy dinners. Beneath the surface of these customary gestures lies a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the deeper essence of love. Although this day has turned into a cultural celebration of romantic affection, it also serves as a moment to contemplate the profound nature of true love— a love that echoes the selfless, sacrificial love that God shows us.
At the heart of Christian theology, at least as I study it, is the belief that God’s love for humanity is the truest and most perfect form of love. John 15:13 captures this beautifully: “No greater love has any man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”
These words, spoken by Jesus, define love not as a fleeting emotion or a self-serving pursuit but as an act of ultimate sacrifice. They invite us to think about how we show love in our own lives. True love challenges us to move beyond superficial gestures and instead embrace a love that gives, serves, and sacrifices. On Valentine’s Day, this divine example reminds us that love is not about what we receive but what we are willing to give.
In our human relationships, true love often requires us to set aside our own comfort, desires, or convenience for someone else’s well-being. This principle stands in stark contrast to the transactional view of love often promoted by modern culture, which emphasizes personal gain and self-gratification. Think about a couple navigating the challenges of daily life together. True love isn’t about grand romantic gestures but is found in the small, daily acts of kindness and selflessness. It’s in the spouse who wakes up early to make coffee for their partner, the parent who sacrifices sleep to care for a sick child, or the friend who goes out of their way to provide support during a tough time. These seemingly ordinary moments reflect the extraordinary nature of sacrificial love.
But how do we recognize true love in a world that often confuses it with infatuation or convenience? Now this can get tricky, but I personally think we need to examine the motivations and actions behind the relationship thoughtfully. True love isn’t self-serving; it’s about seeking the good in the other person, even at a personal cost. Jesus’ life and teachings provide a clear example of this. His love for humanity wasn’t passive or conditional, it was active and sacrificial. He gave up the glory of heaven, lived a life of humility, and ultimately laid down His life so that others might have eternal life. That’s the ultimate standard for how we should love one another.
Valentine’s Day serves as a reminder to all who are open and thoughtful, that true love isn’t about what we can get out of a relationship, but about what we are willing to give. It’s about putting the needs of the other person above our own and showing commitment through action. The Apostle Paul’s description of love in 1 Corinthians 13 captures this beautifully: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”
These words challenge us to be patient and kind, to put others first, and to forgive freely. In doing so, we reflect the love of God to those around us.
While Valentine’s Day is often associated with romantic love, its origins lie in the story of St. Valentine, a Christian martyr who demonstrated love through his faith and actions. His legacy reminds us that love isn’t limited to romantic relationships, but also encompasses our love for friends, family, and even strangers. When we celebrate Valentine’s Day, it’s a chance to reflect on the sacrificial love of Christ and how it can strengthen our own relationships. By focusing on what we can give rather than what we can receive, we honor the true spirit of the day and draw closer to God’s vision for love.
As we plan experiences and exchange cards and gifts this Valentine’s Day, let’s try to remember that the greatest expression of love isn’t found in material things, but in the sacrifices we make for others. Jesus’ words in John 15:13 challenge us to embrace a love that is selfless and sacrificial, reflecting the heart of God. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or quiet sacrifices, we can embody the true meaning of Valentine’s Day by loving others as Christ loves us. In doing so, we not only strengthen our relationships, but also offer a glimpse of God’s perfect love in a world that needs it.
