GOLDWATER AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Ariz -- February - a month to remind service members to be safe, while celebrating America's most prevalent religious and non-spiritual traditions.
The second month of the Gregorian calendar has more observations for Americans than any other month - honorable presidents; famous African-Americans; the named groundhog; announced winners in music and movies; Fat Tuesday; the Super of all Bowls; and of course a purchased heart of some sort - just to name a few!
God Himself does not refute good things or people who enjoy celebratory activities - so long as they are done without shame and in moderation. (Ref. Exodus 12:14; 1 Corinthians 6:12 NLT)
One of the oldest Bible stories tells of annual festivals and celebrations declared by Queen Esther and her king. Parties at the palace commenced for 180 days to honor the rich, and other feasts that lasted 7 days for the poor. Despite Esther's Jewish heritage, the king lavished her with royal diadems. The king's highest officer was mortified and tried to destroy Esther's family because of this. Thanks be to God, who strategically used her cousin, Mordecai who convinced the king otherwise. The king instead had the officer killed and decided to give Esther's cousin his own royal robe. (Esther 1-10 NLT)
When I was a small child, I did not enjoy the pleasures of birthday parties, sleepovers or even new birthday clothes. At the time, my mother could not afford such frivolities, so my six siblings and I simply did without. I recently had my very first birthday party - where I changed into three different outfits and enjoyed one of the largest birthday cakes a person could have. Also, guests stayed overnight in my home, and celebrated with me the whole week long! God reminds me everyday of the love my mother gave me that replaced the material things she couldn't give.
Whether we remember our founding fathers; the contributions of great African-Americans; acknowledge trivial things; honor gifted people; and even carry out traditions that tug on our hearts, God wants us to enjoy the love He has for us every day - and then pass it on!
Happy Valentines Day!