If we are to develop an intimate relationship, we need to know each other’s desires. If we wish to love each other, we need to know what the other person wants. – Gary Chapman, The Five Love Languages

What would you like to do on Valentine’s Day?

When I was in elementary school one of the most stressful days of the year was Valentine’s Day. For several days leading up to February 14, all of us made our personalized mailbox – using materials like cereal boxes, oatmeal canister or a shoe box with tons of glitter, construction paper and paint.

Then the dreaded day came. I brought in my mailbox and waited to see if anyone would give me a Valentine’s card. I didn’t understand at the time that every child had to bring enough cards for everyone in the class! When the day was over and I realized that my mailbox was filled with Valentine’s cards, I couldn’t wait to get home and read all of them. Actually, I just looked through the cards and found the ones that had small candy bars taped to them!

Years have passed and my stress about Valentine’s Day is gone. Even though this day is just another “Hallmark Holiday” rooted in no meaningful history, I’ve learned to enjoy it. For all of our marriages, it’s good to have a day that encourages intentionality and creativity in expressing our love to each other.

It may come through flowers, cards, balloons, special dates, long walks, a romantic evening or even candy! You may go out to a fun restaurant, cook together at home, or order in. You may watch a movie or go to the symphony.

One important thing to do before Valentine’s Day is to ask today’s question of each other. It’s an easy way to make sure you know each other’s expectations and can help you really enjoy this day together. Actually, that’s a great way to live everyday of the year – not just on this Hallmark holiday.

So, in the middle of these cold, winter days, warm up your love life on this Valentine’s Day. Take some time to talk …make a fun plan … express your love creatively to your spouse … and enjoy the love of your life.

Jeff Helton
Marriage and Family Pastor
+ Fellowship Bible Church
+ 50 Fridays Challenge

It’s National Marriage Week AND Valentines Day is this week AND now here’s a fantastic new FREE eBook to download and read with your spouse! Does it get any better than this?

The eBook is called Love Everyday – Thoughts on Loving Amidst the Chaos of Life. I’m especially excited to share it with you because a few of my friends are co-authors:

Stu Gray – The Marry Blogger

Dustin Riechmann – Engaged Marriage

Brad Chaffee – Enemy of Debt & Logos4You.net

Happy reading! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!