Guest Post by Bro. A.J. Pregony (Mt. Victory Baptist Church)
In the Book of Song of Solomon, we find one of the most poetic expressions of love:
"Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as
death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a
most vehement flame." (Song of Solomon 8:6). Here, love is not portrayed as a
fleeting emotion but as an eternal bond—strong and unyielding, much like the love
that God has for us.
Let us consider the story of Ruth and Boaz. Ruth, a Moabite widow, chose to stay
with her mother-in-law, Naomi, after the death of her husband. Her words to Naomi
are among the most beautiful expressions of loyalty and love: "Intreat me not to
leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and
where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God."
(Ruth 1:16). Ruth's dedication ultimately led her to Boaz, a man of wealth and
kindness, who recognized her virtue and took her under his wing, eventually
marrying her.
This is not just a tale of romantic love, but also of divine providence and the spiritual
kinship that forms when we commit ourselves to the path of righteousness and love
for one another. Ruth's love for Naomi, her loyalty, and her humility in gleaning in the
fields of Boaz all illustrate a love that is patient, kind, and selfless. This is the kind of
love described by the Apostle Paul: "Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity
envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up." (1 Corinthians 13:4).
On this Valentin's Day, let us appreciate romantic love and the deeper, spiritual love
that binds us in fellowship. Whether you celebrate with your spouse, friends, or
alone, remember that love in its truest form is an act of giving, a way to see God in
one another, and an opportunity to serve without expecting anything in return.
As we share gifts, words, and gestures of affection, let us also reflect on how to
embody this love daily. Let your words be seasoned with grace, your actions guided
by compassion, and your heart open to all. As it is said, "He that loveth not knoweth
not God; for God is love." (1 John 4:8). Thus, on this day, let us renew our
commitment to love—not just in the earthly sense but in a spiritual and everlasting
sense. Cherish the love you give and receive, recognizing in it a reflection of God’s
love surrounding us all.
Happy Valentine's Day, dear ones! May your hearts be ever filled with love, peace,
and understanding as you walk in the path of light and love.
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