Valentine’s Day MusingsFebruary 09, 2026

Valentine’s Day Musings

I remember fondly the decorated boxes in each of my grade school classrooms where we happily placed our valentines for all our classmates. The afternoon distribution on February 14th was always the centerpiece of the traditional party complete with delicious refreshments dutifully provided by our parents.

Some of our sisters even remember the song they were taught in first grade that went like this, “Jesus, dear, will you be mine? Will you be my valentine? All my love I give to You. Jesus, take my heart, please do.” You may be smiling, as I did, when I first heard this song as an adult, but it has a certain depth to it, doesn’t it?

In fact, have you ever thought of Valentine’s Day as a day to celebrate the amazing gift of being unconditionally loved that we have been given by our good and gracious God? “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)

In her blog, “The Season of Incarnation,” contemporary theologian Ilia Delio, OSF, states “God’s love is the reason anything exists, and the reason anything exists is because God loves without measure.” When we become even slightly aware of God’s never-ending love for us, we can learn to rest in this love. Resting in God’s embrace is a powerful way to pray and an effective practice for growing in our ability to receive God’s love.

The season of Lent is almost upon us. If you haven’t yet given thought to your personal observance perhaps you might commit to recalling daily the awesome ways God loves you in particular, in your uniqueness. This reflection can not only lead to greater self-acceptance but can also be a means of your increased understanding of and appreciation for all God’s beloved “valentines.”

Let us pray:

Faithful God, you have lavished us with love. Keep us ever mindful that you keep your promises. On our difficult days help us to remember that you are a refuge for those who need shelter, a comfort for those who feel empty and poor in spirit. On our joyful days fill us with a deep sense of thanksgiving as we experience your everlasting love. Help us to share your graciousness with all those who need a touch of generous love. Amen.

Sister Virginia DeVinne