What are We Celebrating!?

It's Valentine's Day! Or is it, the Orthodox Church celebrates the remembrance of Saint Valentinus on July 7 and in Brazil it is celebrated in June. So what are we celebrating!? The answer to that is different for many people, but it would seem that Velentinus based on different martyrologies was imprisoned for two main reasons.

1. He performed weddings for young couples who were otherwise forbidden to marry. 
2. He ministered to Christians during the time of the Roman Empire (when Christians were persecuted for their faith).

No matter when you celebrate, I think we should always remember the Saints that have gone before us and suffered death for keeping the gospel of Christ alive. 

Sometime in the 18th century the holiday (thought to be made up by Hallmark) became a celebration of romance. I have no problem with this because, "There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for his friends." and Jesus then calls me His friend, no longer a slave (John 15:13-15).

Today, through progression and through the 19th century it has become a day to celebrate the love between you and your lover. A day where gifts, cards, and candy are exchanged as a token of how much passion lies beneath.

I think I will celebrate all of it. Remembering the past, basking in the love of Christ, and totally enjoying the love my wife gives to me each day. What are you celebrating?