Valentine's Day Inspires Love

From Rev Sue Ann Yarbrough

Grace and peace to each of you. Sunday is Valentine's Day. While that is often a fun day, may we remember that God loves us each and every day! I pray that things are settling down for you all. While you are taking care of others, I do encourage you to remember to take care of yourselves. Please.

Happy Valentine's Day. Photo by alleksana from Pexels

Scripture: John 14:2 King James Version
"In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you."
 
MEDITATION
My beloved dog is about 12 years old. My husband and I are guessing his age. We adopted him a decade ago through a rescue agency when he looked to be about two years old. During this time of working at home, he has been a great companion, and even though right now he is curled up sound asleep on the couch, I find his presence is comforting, and I think he is happy that I am here as well.

Sue Ann's dog, Jack

Jack now has poor eyesight, but does quite well as long as at least one of us is with him. However, earlier this week, I realized that at night he is reluctant to go down the short flight of stairs to the backyard. For years, I simply opened the door and told him to go outside while I waited at the door for his return.

​During the day that still works, but not at night. I then remembered that he no longer sees very well and probably has more difficulties at night, even with the porch light on. I have started going down the stairs first, and then calling him. He now goes down the stairs with more confidence. He knows I am there.

When I am experiencing a lack of confidence, I remember this scripture, and I remember that there is no situation where Jesus has not gone before me. In fact, Jesus is continually preparing the way. I need this encouragement. It is also helpful for me to remember that God always has room for me; my journey is not in vain. I love the King James version - that there is not only room, but a mansion. It is a mansion where none of us will ever be lost because we belong. We can courageously go forward. Jesus is there, waiting for us at each and every door.

PRAYER
Holy One, thank you for showing us the way. Thank you for understanding our fears when we cannot see our way forward. Yet, because of your love, we know we can continue on this journey. We thank you for the beauty that is with us today, and the beauty that awaits us. May we never forget to pay attention to the ways your love is being made known to us. Amen.

Rev. Sue Ann Yarbrough, Associate Pastor
San Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ
www.slzchurch.org 
www.hearthpsalms.blogspot.com ​