The Greatest Gift

by Angelo Head
(USA, Colorado)

In the United States, February 14th marks the loving and romantic holiday known as Valentine' Day. People of all ages participate by giving something sweet and thoughtful to someone they appreciate in their life. Gifts that are most common on this day are cards, teddy bears, roses, and chocolates.

This year instead of just getting something for my mom or a girl I might be fond of, I've decided to expand my realms of philanthropy and get something special for both my grandmothers. Giving something that is dear to you or that required something of you to give to someone else is so cool. Watching their face transform from loneliness and question to gratitude and amazement is priceless and, I believe, is one of the greatest experiences God has ever given to us. But over 2000 years ago, God would give the world something much greater than chocolates and teddy bears. He would give His one and only son, Jesus, to die for our sins that we may be saved.

My youth Pastor once told me that God loves us so much that the love our parents have for us, as great as it may be, seems like hate compared to His love. Ouch! But that?s the kind of love God knew it would take when He sent His son to Earth. God knew that people would curse Jesus, mock him, and do nasty and painful things to him before nailing him to a cross to die. In spite of knowing that all these things would occur, God will wanted us to have the chance to have our sins wiped clean, to be given salvation, and have his spirit dwell within us by accepting Him into our life.

Valentine's Day is one day out of the year where we give gifts out of love, but I believe it should take place everyday. These gifts should also be of ourselves, not materialistic ideas from your local grocery store. Words of wisdom, inspiration, and encouragement can be gifts of love. Helping the elders, widows, and orphans of your community can be gifts of love as well. Give the most you can, the best you can, when you can! I believe selflessness is what really makes the world go around.