Printed in February's edition of Watersedge Lighthouse Church Newsletter.

Do we really understand the love of God and how to show it to others?

At the end of January, we will see gifts and gestures of love and romance everywhere.

The stores will advertise long-stemmed roses, red, pink and white soft toys, a variety of boxes carrying delectable, assorted chocolates bursting with nutty, creamy and fruity centers.

Yes, we enjoy these things. We have been given senses to take pleasure in the wonderful gifts God has given us to appreciate.

However, when sin entered the world, it distorted our finite minds of what love is all about.

Selfishness, pride, anger, bitterness, unrealistic expectations and unkindness all take root in our hearts and break friendships and relationships with God and with others.

Dating in the 21st century is totally different than when I was growing up in the 70s and 80s.

Today, telephone and internet dating sites are popular. Texting sometimes replaces phone conversations and men don't usually know how to ask a lady out for a date!

Where are the old-fashioned and traditional ways of courting?

Sad to say, our society, even some "Christians" has adopted a "self-pleasure" attitude and the old familiar line, "if it feels good, do it" still applies today.

I've had men tell me that I was "too conservative for them" and one actually called me a "Jesus freak".

For singles, divorced and widowed who want to meet a Christian partner, where does that leave us?

We need to do what Pastor Dave tells us each week: to have a daily, "fellowship relationship"  with the One who not only teaches us how to love, but shows it through His love, forgiveness, grace and mercy.

Saying, "I love you" is a wonderful thing to hear, but it is only believable when actions of kindness, sacrifice and a giving heart is shown to another individual.

God took action when He said, "I love you".

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life
(John 3:16 KJV).