(Have you ever had one of those days when you flip back through your journal to see what was going through your mind “at this time last year”? I have…only, I don’t really keep a journal, so this blog has to suffice. While strolling through memory lane, I re-read this entry from just around a year ago and decided to give it a little face lift. So, this years thoughts are bold-ed and dispersed throughout…amazing how it’s still relevant).
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So, I am about to get a little vulnerable. There is a point to this post, however, I feel it will be better communicated if the mental journey I made today (last year…and again today) is showcased, and for the good of mankind (so noble, I know), I am willing to expose some of the inner workings of my heart. If you skip the backstory, please read the italicized portion at the end.
As a good percentage of the world gears up for February 14th, the temptation can arise for those lonely ride in bucket 5 individuals (Never Been Kissed reference for the ladies) to view it as the season of our discontent. (Still a great girl movie).
Even for those of us who are single by choice, gladly embracing the time we have to pursue those things God has put in our heart, it can be a little discouraging. (This year, I would reword it…not discouraging…just mildly distracting. This past year, God has really shown me how a heart set on him can rest and be encouraged by just about anything… gratefulness–it changes everything).
I can’t lie, as I see my friends enjoying a season I have yet to know, a little stirring of desire may disturb the quiet waters of my own contented soul. (Desire is still there, but contentment and joy have grown).
There was even a time when I readily joined in with my friends in celebrating Happy SAD (Singles Awareness Day) on February 14th (the ironic thing, those who were most gung-ho in celebration are now happily married). (Historical, thus still true).
So, as I find myself approaching this annual celebration of Love, I can hear the little niggling voice in the back of my mind. Initially, I simply thought I would simply post something encouraging about enjoying the season of singleness or some other Joshua Harris approved sentiment. (While there may be more posts like this in the future, I’ve really learned that Singleness isn’t about being alone or not “in love”, but it’s about being open to love indiscriminately. There is no one to be jealous, no one to feel ignored or under appreciated. But there are plenty in need of compassion and time).
But, the Muse of Divine Inspiration, the Holy Spirit, got a hold of me this morning with a challenge and I decided to pass it on to anyone out there who is tiered of maintaining and would enjoy taking some ground.
So, for 2011, I am issuing a Valentine’s Challenge to myself and who ever else might be game. This year, I am determined to be an extension of love to someone without looking for love back. (I’m taking up my own challenge again in 2012…maybe it will be a tradition).
John 15:13 (GOD’S WORD Translation)
13The greatest love you can show is to give your life for your friends.
When we lay down our own gratification and seek to love and serve with our only satisfaction being the fact that we have been an extension of Jesus to someone and he has been made great in their life, we are extending true Love. It may be inconvenient, it may not be “romantic” but it could mean the world to someone.
John 15:13 (The Message)
11-15“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father.
So, this year, I’m committed to sharing in the mature Joy of Jesus by loving how He loves. So, think about it and find a way to be an extension.
I’ll be donating blood for example Tuesday, February 14th. One time giving can save up to three lives.
Some other options, send random cards to people, buy someones lunch when they aren’t looking, spend your romantic dinner serving food for those who don’t have anything.
I’m still getting my game plan together, and the only reason I post this now is to see if together, we can make a difference and just love.
Whether you are single in facebook status or just single-minded in your pursuit, it’s really not about ring on your finger or candy in your mouth…just love.
Thoughts? Plans? Share them in the comments, you may just inspire someone else.
Lyssah
Fog for Muses 