John LaBissoniere

Each year millions of people observe Valentine's Day. By sending cards and giving flowers, candy and other gifts, many consider the holiday as an opportunity to show affection to their special sweethearts.

Of course buying presents and doing nice things for one's true love is admirable. But should you and I participate in Valentine's Day as a means of showing fondness and esteem? More importantly, is this something our Creator God endorses and honors?

During World War 1, the purported "war to end all wars," over 9 million soldiers died, 21 million soldiers were wounded and almost 7 million civilians lost their lives. The Second World War resulted in the deaths of an estimated 54 million soldiers and citizens. Millions of veterans who lived through the horrors of those terrible conflicts learned to despise war. But since armed human conflict is so appalling, why do nations persist in waging war?

At a funeral service several years ago I was moved by an especially poignant and fitting eulogy given for a man who had faithfully served his family and country for many years. If someone were to give a eulogy for you or me at our funerals, what would they say? Just what kind of legacy are we developing? Is our reputation one of deep, abiding character? Are we exemplifying honesty, integrity and excellence in the way we live?