I, like most people, really like those candy hearts with the little messages on
them. I have noticed that in the past few years the messages have changed to
include “TXT ME” and “FRIEND ME” making these candies a low-tech social
networking tool. I have even come across some that have been slightly risqué
to the point that if given in the workplace they could be seen as harassment.

But, alas, there are the old standards for those of us who prefer a more
traditional take on the “candy heart message.” These include: "Be Mine",
"Call Me", “Love You", and "Miss You". It is these heart-messages that I recall
and fondly when I think of that sweet confection treat with the somewhat
saccharine message. Don’t get me wrong. These treats along with the entire
Valentine’s Day industry can certainly help us convey a heartfelt message of
affection between people who are attracted to one another. Perhaps if we
allowed ourselves to be removed from the sugar induced haze of yet another
candy holiday we may also see a deeper message not only in the candy hearts
and the messages they offer but in what Valentine’s Day can be for God’s faithful
people. "Be Mine", "Call Me", “Love You", and "Miss You" are all messages of
faithfulness and love that Jesus has for us.

Perhaps this message is best stated in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, 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 …
the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13)

Let us not forget our first love this Valentine’s Day. Take to celebrate your
relationship with Jesus and the love that he offers all of us on a daily basis.

In Christ,

Rev. W. Russell freeman, Sr.