Love Thy Neighbor

Earlier this week, I shared a blog that I hoped wouldn’t spark more anger than love. Yet, in some ways, it did. It reminded me how easy it is to focus on what divides us—how fast we can react with judgment, criticism, or bitterness. I’ll be honest: I’m guilty of all of that too. I’ve said words in anger, held grudges, and sometimes failed to show the patience and compassion I hope to live by. But today, on Valentine’s Day, I want to flip the script. I want to remind myself—and all of us—of the power we have to choose love, even in a world that sometimes seems to thrive on division.

The Bible tells us in Matthew 22:39, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Simple words, but revolutionary when put into action. Loving our neighbors isn’t just for the easy, the kind, or the like-minded—it’s for everyone. Even the ones who frustrate us, challenge us, or hurt us. Real love doesn’t keep score; it doesn’t wait for the perfect moment; it chooses compassion, patience, and forgiveness every single time.

Love isn’t always flowers, chocolates, or grand gestures. Sometimes, love is a smile when someone expects anger. Sometimes, it’s listening without judgment. Sometimes, it’s offering grace where none is deserved. As 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 reminds us: *“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no records of wrong; it does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” That kind of love is radical. It’s intentional. And it’s available to every one of us—not just on Valentine’s Day, but every single day.

So today, I challenge myself—and you—to practice this love in the small, quiet ways that matter. Reach out to someone you’ve been frustrated with. Speak kindly when it’s easier to snap. Forgive when it’s easier to hold on. Choose understanding over assumption, patience over impatience, and grace over judgment.

Because when we do, we become part of something bigger than ourselves. We create ripples of compassion in a world that desperately needs it. And we remind everyone—including ourselves—that love isn’t just a feeling; it’s a decision, a practice, and a commitment that can change everything.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s love boldly, love freely, and love with intention. And for everyone reading this—remember, love starts with you. Take a moment today to be kind to yourself, to celebrate your own journey, and to show gratitude for the people who bring light into your life. Whether it’s a friend, a family member, a partner, or even a stranger, a small act of love or kindness can ripple farther than you ever imagine.

Happy Valentine’s Day! Let today be a reminder that love isn’t just a holiday—it’s a choice, a practice, and a gift we give freely to the world around us. Choose it generously.

o record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”*

Choosing Love Today

So, as we navigate this Valentine’s Day, let’s challenge ourselves to move beyond the superficial. If you’re feeling the weight of division or the sting of a recent argument, I invite you to join me in these three small, intentional shifts:

• Lead with Listening: Before reacting to a comment that stings, ask a question instead. Try to understand the "why" behind the words.

• Extend Unmerited Grace: Reach out to someone you’ve been at odds with. You don’t have to concede your point to offer your peace.

• Forgive Yourself: We are all works in progress. Acknowledge your mistakes, learn from them, and let go of the bitterness that keeps you from growing.

The Bottom Line

Love is a verb, not just a feeling. It is a daily decision to see the humanity in others, even when they make it difficult. Today, let’s be the reason someone else believes in the power of kindness. Let’s make the world a little softer, one compassionate choice at a time.

Happy Valentine’s Day. Let’s make it about more than just ourselves—let’s make it about the love that unites us all.