The Mystery of Love Revealed!

by David Shannon

The history of Valentine's Day isn�t known for certain. Three legends share in its mystery. One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome marrying young soldiers in secret since the Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers. Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons. Another legend, Valentine actually sent the first 'valentine' greeting to a young girl -- who may have been his jailer's daughter -- who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine,' an expression that is still in use today.
Along with the history of this day being uncertain, the love expressed during this week in February is perverted for many. Have you heard and seen demonstrations of love in our society today? Have you heard of the sexual acts of junior high and high school students who declare it isn't sex? Have you seen the lack of commitment while folks consider themselves deeply in love? Have you noticed the attraction between two is often only physical, the dating is only sexual and the wedding is only temporal? God's word contains an entire book about genuine love called the Song of Solomon. We learn about attraction, dating, courting, weddings, honeymoons, conflict, and commitment. In early March on Sunday mornings we look forward to opening this study to our high school youth so the mystery of love can be made known! Our youth must be reassured that God made them to feel attraction and desire, but for them "not stir up nor awaken love until it pleases" (2:7). To all you married folks try a few lines from Song of Solomon in your card this 14th! "When I found the one I love I held him and would not let him go" (3:4).

• Dynamic Marriages -Nov 27, 2005
• Honoring Your Spouse -Nov 06, 2005
• Preparing for Marriage -Sep 11, 2005
• Virgins Until the Wedding Day -Apr 24, 2005
• Marriage: God's Definition -Mar 22, 2005