Greeting card companies, florists, chocolate companies, jewelers–they all make such a big deal about Valentines day! …and if we give it any serious thought, it is primarily for their profit, not our benefit. For some, Valentine’s day is rightly represented by a beautiful heart; for many others, however, a piercing arrow is more fitting. One love is sure, it is constant, it is steadfast and will not waver and it is God’s love.

This is my prayer:

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.

Father, it is my desire to engage my soul—my mind, my will, my emotions—in blessing you today, for you are good to me. You forgive my sins through the shed blood of Jesus, you heal the wounds and scars of my sinful nature and you offer healing for all my diseases—no human insurance policy can offer benefits as great as yours! You have redeemed my life from the pit and crowned me with steadfast love and mercy—how can I help but bless you and praise your holy name? Teach me to be satisfied with the good you have provided; renew my spirit in your strength, vitality, endurance, and your Holy Spirit, I pray.

Lord, work righteousness, and justice for all those experiencing oppression—whether by government, society, or family members. There are people imprisoned and suffering because they believe in you; pour out your Spirit on them, immerse them in your love and grace. Fill your people with compassion; show us how we can extend your righteousness and mercy to all those who are suffering.

What a precious promise, Lord! I would be so undone if you dealt with me according to my sins! Thank you for not repaying me according to my iniquities, which have been many! You have removed all my transgressions from me, as far as the east is from the west! Father, to be honest, I don’t understand that; I just do not comprehend your steadfast love. There is nothing in my human experience that can relate to your mercy and compassion. Overwhelm my life with your Spirit and your love. Give me grace to extend your love, your compassion, your forgiveness, and your mercy to my family first, and to everyone I encounter on life’s journey.

Lord, you know me intimately; you know how I am formed, that I am but dust. You know my weaknesses and vulnerabilities—yet you love me and you chose to die for me! I really do not get it, but I accept as best I can—I accept you as my God and Savior. I ask that you continue to pour out your love on my children and their families, too. Teach us how to live in your covenant of grace, trusting completely in Jesus, our Lord. Write your laws on our hearts, and teach us how to love you with our whole hearts, souls, minds, and strength—enable us to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and let all of creation bless your holy name! In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.