February, the month of love, not only brings us the popular Valentine’s Day (Feb. 14) but also World Marriage Day (Feb. 11) and the beginning of the Lenten season with Ash Wednesday (Feb. 14). This year, uniquely, Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday coincide on Feb. 14, creating a special convergence between romantic love, marital commitment and spiritual reflection.
Valentine’s Day, celebrated in many parts of the world, has become a day dedicated to expressing and celebrating romantic love. However, amid gifts and demonstrations of affection, it is crucial to remember that true love has its roots in something deeper and more meaningful. For many, the Christian faith plays an essential role in their lives, and this month offers the opportunity to explore the intersection between earthly and divine love.
On the same day that lovers exchange tokens of love, the Church marks the beginning of Lent with Ash Wednesday. Lent is a time of reflection, penance and spiritual preparation for the celebration of Easter. This coincidence in the liturgical calendar is a unique opportunity to consider how human and divine love can coexist and mutually strengthen.
World Marriage Day, celebrated on Feb. 11, is another reminder of the importance of cultivating love in the family sphere. Beyond romantic aspects, marriage is a sacramental alliance that, for Christian believers, should be based on higher values. The connection between the love of God and love between partners is evident in biblical teachings.
In 1 John 4: 7-12, the link between God’s love and love among people is expressed clearly: “Beloved, let us love one another; for love is if of God; everyone who loves is begotten by God and knows God. Whoever is without love does not know God, for God is love.” This passage highlights that authentic human love finds its origin in divine love, and by loving, we draw closer to the very essence of God.
When a couple decides to place Christ at the center of their marriage, they are seeking a solid and lasting foundation. Jesus, as a center figure, provides guidance and the example of an indissoluble, unconditional, sacrificial and compassionate love. Shared Christian faith in God can strengthen the marital union of a man and a woman, providing support in difficult times and deepening 00614861emotional and spiritual connection.
The coincidence of Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday this year offers Christian couples the opportunity to reflect on the sacred nature of love in their lives. By considering the call to love each other and God, they find deeper meaning in their relationship and a shared purpose that goes beyond commercial festivities.
Ultimately, the month of February invites us to explore the rich connection between human and divine love, reminding us that true love, whether in the context of a Christian couple or in our relationship with the divine, has the power to transform and enrich our lives and faith in extraordinary ways.
Peace!