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I cling to you; Your strong right hand holds me securely.
Psalm 63:8 NLT

It was quite a while before he admitted the embarrassment about his hands. He was concerned about the carpenter’s callouses – all I noticed was their strong, yet gentle strength.

I have so many precious memories of those hands – holding my hand while we walked; placing his hand under my elbow when crossing the street; resting his hand on my shoulder when I was upset; sliding the ring on my finger. Even when we were apart I knew we were “holding hands” because of the love we shared.

It has been almost three years since I held his hand for the last time – yet I still remember the feeling of love that was there.

Now, as I approach yet another of “those” difficult dates, I am reminded daily by the media and store displays that I no longer have a “Valentine”; therefore, I have no one to love me.

That is the world’s view.

God’s view is entirely different. For God tells me very clearly in these words from
Isaiah 41:10

God is telling me that He is holding my hand as we walk together; placing His hand under my elbow as I cross the street; resting His hand on my shoulder when I am upset and that He has placed a spiritual ring on my finger with His own right hand for He now has become my husband. (Isaiah 54:5)

Indeed, I do have a Valentine!

I thank God for the 25 years my beloved and I were together, and I gratefully accept the love that He pours upon me as His Valentine.

My Lord, as these coming days unfold before my dear sisters, I pray that You will instill within them a real knowledge of Your ever present “Valentine” love for each of them. Let them feel the strength and gentleness of Your strong right hand caressing them gently – ever so gently. Amen.