February 2018


In February nature is already on its way toward spring. Although this is the month of greatest snowfall for many northern regions, the daylight hours are already lengthening. Mating season begins in February for some species including sparrows, cardinals, raccoons, foxes, skunks, bald eagles, and of course, groundhogs. Perhaps there is a bit of fact in the lore of Groundhog Day. 

Love is in the air in February. Geoffrey Chaucer’s poem “The Parliament of Fowls” (circa 1380) describes how birds find the love of their life at an annual parliament on February 14 each year. It is considered the first Valentine’s Day poem and some scholars believe it is the origin of this holiday as a celebration of romance. 

God gave us Creation as a gift of love. In it are a thousand expressions of the love he has for us. Indeed, God was the first to give flowers as a token of his love. Maybe there was even a chocolate tree in the Garden of Eden. When we look at nature, we ought to see it just as a Valentine’s Day gift – as a manifestation of love towards us. How we treat God’s gift of love shows what we think of the Giver. Referring to the gifts of Creation John Matthews, current director of the NAD Stewardship Ministries said, "Being careless with these gifts will distort the picture of God to humanity and the intention God has for us."1

Others are ever watchful of Christians. Anyone would be skeptical of a lover who lightly regarded a token of affection received from their beloved. And so, it is our joy to cherish and care for every revelation of love from our Creator. Here are ways you can sustainably care for God’s gift this month: Begin planning for a garden this spring; Purchase items that are reusable or lasting whenever possible. For example, instead of pre-cut flowers, give a flowering plant this Valentine’s Day; Re-gift items no longer wanted; Spend time together instead of buying material goods to express your feelings, perhaps even write a poem; Adopt a pet from a shelter; Read about how Creation expresses God’s love in his love letter the Bible.

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By David F. Garner
 

Sources:
1. John Matthews. Week 5 ~ 01/31 ~ Stewards of Spiritual Truth. Video (NAD Stewardship Ministries, 2018). https://vimeo.com/252387747.

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