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Love is Inclusive

Valentine’s Day. Ah, the forced expression of love. If it’s on the calendar, we’d better do it.

Does that sound cynical? I’m sorry. I don’t mean it to, it’s just that I’ve seen too many people hurt over the years by holidays that exclude them. We need to be grateful for what we have and celebrate special people in our lives, but I can’t help but think of those who are without. Valentine’s Day is painful for people without loved ones. Mother’s Day is painful for orphans, those estranged from their moms, and those whose mothers have died. Father’s Day is the same way. Thanksgiving and Christmas can be terribly lonely and painful. It’s not that we shouldn’t celebrate, but that we should be inclusive, not exclusive. Holidays are not just for families. Who started that, anyway? 

This Valentine’s Day, ask God to show you someone who needs love. Encourage your kids to give valentines or candy to the unpopular kids. Think about the people at work or church that are single, or away from loved ones. What can you do for them?

God is love. As His children and followers, we are to be His love to others. As I’m typing this, God has brought two people to mind – an elderly widower and a divorced woman. “Lord, show me what you want me to do for them.” One thing I’ve heard from single people is that they rarely get touched. They crave hugs. Maybe all you need to do is hug a lonely person this Valentine’s Day. Whatever it is, do something for someone outside your normal circle.

Love your family, eat heart shaped candy and cakes, write “I love you” on the bathroom mirror, and give valentines to your kids. But don’t forget there are people who don’t get those things. Remember the woman at the well, the one caught in adultery, the children the disciples were shooing away, and Nicodemus who went to Jesus at night because he was too embarrassed to be seen with Him during the day. Jesus made Himself available to all kinds of people. He loved equally and regardless of circumstance.

People all around us have needs. Whose can you meet next Tuesday? Who can you love for Jesus? 

For inspiration, check out this video ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfXgCx3f_1c&sns=fb

photo credit
 

  • February 09, 2012
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