New Springs News

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Read more of February 11 Newsletter here. New Springs Community Weekly Newsletter February 11, 2016   From Pastor Corey Hello Everyone, Each year on February 14, many people exchange cards, candy, gifts or flowers with their special “valentine.” The day of romance we call Valentine's Day is named for a Christian martyr and dates back to the 5th century, but has origins in the Roman holiday Lupercalia (source: History Channel).  Be honest, did you know Valentine’s Day has a Christian connection? Nope, I didn't either! I thought it was a made up holiday where men try to make up for all the wrong we’ve done throughout the year. What other day do we spend unbelievable amounts of money on flowers? What other day is okay to bring your sweetheart a huge box of chocolates and expect her to eat every bite? I don’t think the Bible relates cards, candy, gifts, and flowers to love. Sorry History Channel. The Bible in fact, describes love completely different.  1 Corinthians 13 is perhaps the most famous Bible passage about love, this one is frequently and understandably recited at weddings. But as with many well-known Bible quotes about love, it’s not just romantic love that is being described:  "Love is patient, love is kind, love is not jealous, it does not boast, it does not become conceited, it does not behave dishonorably, it is not selfish, it does not become angry, it does not keep a record of wrongs, it does not rejoice at unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth, bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." This is a clear description of Christ!  1 John 4:16-18 says "God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."  Now I’m sure your Valentine would enjoy a night out on the town, a card, flowers, candy, etc. Just make sure that those gestures are a token of your love and not the description of your love. Being patient, transparent, honest, kind, understanding, humble, appreciative, and not keeping score are far better descriptions of love and make a much bigger and lasting impact in your relationship. These attributes demonstrate Christ. Trust me, I know what I’m talking about. One year for Valentine’s Day, I purchased a car for myself…I don’t have to tell you how that played out with my Valentine. Haha, what was I thinking!  So I’m not sure what any of you are doing for Valentine’s Day this year, I hope you have great plans that demonstrate your affection for the special person in your life. Just remember that if your Valentine can’t see Christ in you; gifts, cards, candy, flowers, and a night on the town are only tokens that will never be the difference maker in your relationship. To develop real intimacy and unending love, Christ has to be at the center.  Happy Valentine’s Day to all you romantics! Pastor Corey