On Feb. 14, there (was) a great deal of money spent on flowers, candy, cards and other gifts as expressions of love for that special someone.

Perhaps as gifts (were) selected, there will be thoughts of what that person means to you, or perhaps there (were) thoughts of guilt because you have waited until Valentine&8217;s Day to express your love.

Regardless of the thoughts or motives, there (were) many gifts sent as expressions of love.

Let me suggest that you consider another expression of love that was given. That expression came from God in the gift of his only son.

That gift of love was not just for those who have done something special for God; it was for all mankind.

Romans 5:8 tells us that &8220;God demonstrates his own love toward us, in that while were still sinners, Christ died for us.&8221;

God expressed his love to us not because of anything we had done to deserve it.

His expression of love was certainly not because of guilt for something he had done. It was simply an act of unconditional love – a love that can and should be felt and responded to every day that we live.

All of us want our families and friends to know that we love and care for them. As you share expressions of love with your families and friends, let me suggest that you really stop and evaluate the way you share your love for God.

Probably each person who reads this would say that they love God. But how have you demonstrated that love for him?

In John 14:15, Jesus gave these words of encouragement to his disciples: &8220;If you love me, keep my commandments.&8221;

Consider these words of Jesus. How many of us have really kept the commandments that he gave us? As I think of Christ&8217;s instructions, I am also reminded of his summary of the commandments in Matthew 22:37-38: &8220;You shall love the Lord you God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.

This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.&8221;

We want to please those we really love. Let each of us please God by keeping the commandments he gave us.

Editor&8217;s Note: This column appeared in the Fourmile Baptist Church bulletin on Feb. 1