February 14th is on its way! Whether you are married, divorced, dating or can't remember the definition for the word "date" because it's been so long, the mention of the day seems to elicit a variety of responses. I love pink, roses and hearts so the ambiance behind Valentine's is really appealing but the reminder that I'm without a "romantic pursuer" much less husband is not so attractive. However, I do know that many women who are married or have been in a marriage relationship would readily remind us single gals that marriage is many times a tool of sanctification (God's spiritual sandpaper hurts!).
Soooo. . .I've been thinking about what is behind all the hype. In my mind, it seems to come down to the reality of love. We experience love through people whether it's a kind word, affection, thoughtful gift or heartfelt prayer. There is a longing to know love at the deepest level and people are part of that knowing. God defines Himself as love so the longing is truly to experience Him at the very core of our being. I believe God uses romantic love with a man as a way to reveal more of Himself~ even when a man fails to show the love of God or there is not a man to do so, it is a loss and should be grieved as so. As Dr. Henry Cloud says, "grieve your losses daily". This means have Kleenex and waterproof mascara on hand.
Losses and longings can cause us women to look to the Author of Love. I was reminded of this last year when we celebrated the publishing of Capture My Heart, Lord on Valentine's Day. I had tried to plan the book launch party multiple times before it became apparent that God wanted to put His fingerprints on Valentine's Day. He reminded me that even our best attempts at human love pale in comparison to His perfect, restoring love which heals our hearts. I had invited a godly gentleman to join me at the celebration who ended up not being able to make it. Throughout the weekend, I was blown away by the kindred friends who came to celebrate and the reality that God's abundant expression of love or my worthiness to receive it is not limited by what we can or cannot do for eachother.
I pray there are many godly men out there who will depend on the Holy Spirit to unconditionally and sacrificially love the woman in their lives. I pray that a florist knocks on my door oh so soon (I'm not picky about the day) to deliver a beautiful arrangement of hot pink roses by a romantic interest. I would have delight at this moment in the expression of love. I also know that if this gesture doesn't happen that by faith in Jesus' life and sacrifice my experience of the love of God will remain rich, creative and all encompassing.
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