Our culture tends to focus more heavily on romance, especially this time of year. Human beings were created to be in relationship with one another. People crave love. God created us to love.

Romance and love have become interchangeable for many people. While our culture may focus heavily on romance, the Bible focusses on love. The love of the Bible is not limited to romance. The love in the Bible describes a myriad of relationships on earth and in heaven.

Some of you may remember a Sunday School song called Love, Love, Love. There are a few different variations of the song out there, but the song begins, “Love, love, love, that’s what it’s all about. God love us, we love each other, mother, father, sister, brother…” Normally geared toward the pre-reading crowd, this song has nothing to do with romance. In fact, 4- and 5-year-olds ‘singing’ “love, love, love” at the top of their little lungs may be adorable, but it is not romantic. It does however proclaim a love that transcends romance.

The love revealed in the incarnation, crucifixion, and resurrection of Christ transcends romance. It is deeper and much more profound than any human gesture. It binds us to Him and one another. The love we have for the Lord and one another is more than an emotional connection. It is founded on a love that surpasses human understanding. It is an extension of God’s love.

Which is more romantic – holding hands across an intimate candlelit dinner or holding hands in a starkly lit oncologist’s office? Which is the more loving? As we journey through our lives, we aim for the more loving acts. God calls us to love Him and to love one another. The grace of God help you reach those heights and depths of true love.

written for the Pastors’ Column & published in St James Plain Dealer, February 14, 2019