Valentine Pressure

There was an interesting conversation I overheard this last week right outside my office. Not a new discussion, but one that happens at this time every year. One of the parents who had brought their child to play at Safari Sam’s was complaining to a friend that Valentine’s Day has become a ‘retail’ holiday, rather than one centered around love. They were pointing out how restaurants raise their prices for this one night, Costco was charging more for flowers, Hallmark cards are now $3-$4, and the babysitter even asked for twice her normal rate. They threw their hands in the air and said, “I give up.”

As I pondered their discussion, I realized something. A day that was set aside so that we could communicate our love to those around us, can potentially become a day of financial pressure and obligation. That is quite different from the original intent.

In the same way, a church can certainly lose its focus and what it is all about. At Rock Harbor, we never want to forget the love God has for us and the opportunity we have to respond to His love in worship. It is not about guilt or obligation, but the joy and hope that Jesus brings.

I hope that is the reason you join us. We are glad you do.