“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God, and everyone who loves is born of God. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:7, 11. (NKJV).
“Teacher, there’s a man at the door.” He stood, looking through the glass door, grinning like a Cheshire cat.
As she headed for the door, he wiggled his eyebrows and held up a large heart-shaped box of candy, a fancy red rose perched on top.The eighth-grade science class on cue, clapped, laughing as they sing-songed: “Teacher has a boy friend.” (Her face rivaled the color of the rose).
Invited in, she introduced him to the class. He perched on the corner of her desk, leaned forward.
“Can you keep a secret?”
Every chin in the class tipped up and down, including hers. “She’s my valentine but not everyone knows--you are among the favored ones.” He then held them captive, enthralled with one of his escapades of near death while flying his F-86 fighter jet. He answered their questions about his flying, then shook hands with them. He’d won twenty five friends in a matter of minutes. And it all started with a box of candy.
After he’d left, she held the box of candy. An assortment of flavors. She looked at her class. An assortment of personalities.
“How about an experiment?” Groans from the students.
“Who would like a piece of candy to celebrate with me?” All hands went up.
She opened her treasure and went up and down the isles. Each student chose a piece.
“Before you devour your treat, look at it.” They did, puzzled. “Not one is the same.” She paused. “But your candy came from the same box, right? Does that make one better than the other?”
“Milk chocolate is the best,” James said. Others chimed in giving their preference. She chuckled.
“Now look around you. Different people but we make up the science class.”
“Will we get eaten?” Laughter abounded.
“No, but we can work together to make a difference. What do you say?”
“Like your special valentine?” Ginny said, a twinkle in her eye.
“Absolutely. All in favor, say ‘aye.’ She blinked at the noise. “The ayes have it!”
Kingdom Thinking. During this time of distress with Covid 19 and unrest, I choose to remember the Lord Jesus holds His Valentine box out to me. I enjoy his gifts and get to share them. He loves me and promises never to forsake me. Wouldn’t you choose His Love? You won’t regret it.