I hope this doesn’t come as a surprise – Valentine’s Day is just two days away. If anyone in a relationship is reading this and just now realizing that (looking at you, men) I recommend a quick trip to the store for some chocolates and flowers before the weekend!
Valentine’s Day is a meaningful reminder that we should show love to others as often as we can. While February 14 helps us pause and focus on the love we share with our closest people, we are called to spend every day spreading love to everyone we encounter.
As Mark 12:30-31 tells us: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” To love others is not a suggestion. It is a necessity if we want to live our lives as God intended.
Greek philosophers determined that there are multiple “types” of love. That which we share with our neighbors is “agape” love. Agape is an unconditional, universal, and selfless love, often described as love for humanity.
It’s not always through words that we have a chance to convey agape love to our neighbors; in fact, when it comes to strangers, that’s rarely the case. It is often through actions that we can show others this love. Holding a door open for someone with their arms full. Picking up someone’s phone when they drop it near you instead of leaving it. Offering a kind smile or a moment of patience to someone who is clearly having a hard day.
Walking alongside a woman facing a pregnancy decision.
At Right to Life of Michigan, agape love fuels our mission. We know that women facing abortion have a tough decision, and that the road ahead may seem bleak. They often feel alone and without love. We seek to meet them where they are without judgment, but with a hopeful, life-affirming message and valuable support and resources. To promote life is to show women we love them and care for them, regardless of her being a friend or a stranger.
Abortion is not love. LIFE is love.
As we approach Valentine’s Day, let this be more than a momentary opportunity to share love. Let it be a mindset. When we meet women with hope, courage, and life, we reflect God’s heart to a world that desperately needs it. May we be people who don’t just speak about love, but live it out boldly, because loving others – especially the most vulnerable – is how we truly honor life.
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and want confidential help and support, call 1-800-712-HELP.
Email any questions to Danny Earl at [email protected].