The Tribune

By Rev. Angela Palacious

As we approach Valentine’s Day, we are called to re-assess our position on the topic of love. What does it mean to live a life of love?

1. Love for God

If God is the one we choose to love first and foremost, then there are activities that will be a matter of lifestyle. Listening and talking to God, enjoying the presence of God and communicating in every manner conceivable, make the activity of prayer a life-enhancing, spirit-invigorating relationship. Learning about God in the past while being prepared to encounter challenges and receive blessings in the future is what Bible study offers, along with the experience of forgiveness, salvation, and the assurance of eternal life. Worship is our duty and joy, as we join with angels and archangels and the whole company in giving praise and thanks to God.

1. Love for Others

As our hearts are made tender by continued contact with God, we come to desire the very best for all of our brothers and sisters in the family of God. We work to bring wisdom, healing, and reconciliation so that God’s will can be done and God’s name be praised. Do we have a responsibility to protect each other from danger? Do we have a duty to help each other to aim higher? How do we determine what is detrimental to a people before we learn from hindsight? Are we engaged in prayers, seeking truth on every subject so as to defend any decisions that we make that have generational implications?

1. Love for Myself

As we grow in our love for God, our ability to love ourselves also increases. We can now dream God’s dreams and obey God’s instructions with a clear vision of our own potential. We seek God’s guidance to be able to act in our own best interest.

How well do you love your God? How well do you love your country and its people? How well do you love yourself?