Live a Life of Love

Typically, when someone thinks of February, the first thing that comes to mind is Valentine’s Day, the holiday of love. Valentine’s Day is somewhat of a debated holiday; you either love it or you hate it.  Some people look forward to this holiday, and the gifts and memories that come with it.  However, some people in relationships may feel overwhelmed with the pressure to make sure the day is special, whereas single people may feel the holiday just serves as a reminder that they are single, or alone. No matter what your personal opinion of Valentine’s Day is, the day can serve as two reminders to Christians; first, we should make showing Christian love a priority, whether it be to your significant other or to a stranger crossing the street; and second, we are never alone, even if a holiday can make us feel that way.

My confirmation verse was Ephesians 5:2a, which says, “Live a life of love, just as Christ loved us.”  Christ showed love to the whole world by being our Savior.  As we begin Lent this month as well, we hear about Christ’s suffering and sacrifice.  Christ dedicated his entire life to us and calls us to dedicate our lives to him, which means living a life of love.  Although Valentine’s Day is typically about couples, the true purpose behind Valentine’s Day is showing someone that you care about them and love them.  Valentine’s Day may have become a secular holiday narrowed to just couples, but it can serve as a reminder that we should show love to all around us, especially when it seems impossible, because Christ showed love to us by saving us from our sins.

At New Beginnings, we do our best as staff and Resident Assistants to provide a family and community feel for our residents.  However, no matter how hard we try, the residents, staff members, or RAs may feel lonely at times, just as anyone can.  Valentine’s Day is occasionally referred to in jokes as “Single People Awareness Day.”  This is an unfortunate outcome from a holiday based on showing people love and affection.  However, as Christians we must remember that we are never alone.  God constantly reassures us in his word that we are not alone.  God is always by our side, so no matter what hardships come our way, he is still there to strengthen our faith through word and prayer.  

Naomi Brandt  is a resident assistant from Salt Lake City, Utah.  While her major at Wisconsin Lutheran College is in Business Administration, she hopes to go to law school after graduation, and work in either law, politics, or public relations.  New Beginnings has been a great opportunity for Naomi to expand her work experience, grow in her faith, and have a home away from home.

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