INSPIRASUNS

Oh, the day when you enjoy flowers and chocolates and special dinners, ahhhh, Valentine’s Day! I hope you all have something special planned with your spouse, significant other, kids, and all those special in your life!

Do you remember when we were kids how we would pick up the packages of individual Valentine cards for classmates? I’m not sure if they still do that or not, but I remember sitting at the kitchen table with the package and writing a note on each one, and addressing it to every kid in my class. Then there was the party at school, cupcakes, cookies, candy, and everyone wearing red or pink. It was always a fun day, ahh the memories 🙂

I thought I’d share some quick facts about the history of St. Valentine, which I think you might find quite interesting. Did you know there were actually three different St. Valentines in our history? Unfortunately, as I researched, I’ve found that the historical record of this saint is lacking at best. Anyway, here’s what I was able to find through various Christian websites, much of the information below comes from these sites.

The first St. Valentine was a priest and physician in Rome. He was known to comfort the martyrs during the persecution of Emperor Claudius II. This first St. Valentine was arrested, condemned to death for his faith, and finally executed on February 14, 270.

The second St. Valentine was the Bishop of Interamna, which is now Terni, located about 60 miles from Rome. He too was arrested, scourged, and executed, again suffering persecution during the time of Emperor Claudius II.

The third St. Valentine suffered martyrdom in Africa with several companions. However, nothing further is known about this saint. In all, these men, each named St. Valentine, showed heroic love for the Lord and His Church.

The popular custom of showing love and affection on St. Valentine’s Day is probably a coincidence with the feast day of the saint. During the Medieval Age, a common belief in England and France was that birds began to pair on Feb.14, “halfway through the second month of the year.” For this reason, the day was dedicated to “lovers” and prompted the sending of letters, gifts, or other signs of affection.

Like many Holidays, Valentine’s Day has become commercialized, however, there is a Christian message that should be remembered. The love of our Lord depicted beautifully in the image of His most Sacred Heart, is a sacrificial, selfless, and unconditional love. Such is the love that each Christian is called to express in his own life, for God and neighbor.

So my friends, as we celebrate this Valentines Day, may we first offer our love to Father for the many gifts and blessings he has provided. He loves us unconditionally and will never forsake us.

Now, carry on with the chocolates, flowers and amazing meals 🙂 . Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!

1 John 4:19
We love because he first loved us.