February is here and the chocolate factory is ready. According to The Nielsen Company, more than 58 million pounds of chocolate candy will be sold during Valentine’s week; taking US chocolate sales to over $450 million dollars in just a few days.February 13th is the most popular day for chocolate sales the entire year. The second most popular day is February 15th; the day after, when the prices are slashed! And just why are folk so bent on chocolate for this holiday?
Historically, Saint Valentine's Day is a holiday celebrated on February 14 by many people throughout the world. In the English-speaking countries, it is the traditional day on which lovers express their love for each other by sending Valentine's cards, presenting flowers, or offering confectionery (that’s a fancy word of “chocolates” or “sweeties”).
Tradition tells us the Saint Valentine was a bishop in Rome who died a martyr’s death and was buried on February 14th. He gave his life for his faith. That’s love. Scripture states, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Many have died for their faith; given their lives for the cause of Christ.
Romans 5:8 (KJV) reminds us...”But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” That’s real love. John said, “For God so loved He gave…..”. He didn’t give chocolate, cards, or flowers. He gave His one and only Son to die for us. That’s the ultimate example of love.
Go ahead…..give your sweetie some chocolate this Valentine’s Day! But remember the greatest give that you can ever give is love.
