Turining Point Church

The winged and mischievous little angel called Cupid is one of the very famous Valentine's Day Symbols. The symbol traces its origin from the Roman mythology where Cupid is identified as the son of Venus - the Goddess of Love. It is believed that Cupid had a bow with a quiver of arrows and anyone hit by Cupid's arrow did not die but fell in love.

Okay, I know, it’s pure mythology. But the idea behind the image has stuck in the American mind—an unsuspecting person suddenly overwhelmed with irresistible feelings of love for another; hence, struck by Cupid’s arrow.

But Bible love—called agape (ag-ah'-pay)—is quite different. The idea behind agape is that of choice. Love is not just something that shows up and hits you over the head with irresistible gushings of affection. This certainly takes place in love’s first bloom, but the long haul of love is decided by choice. Bible love is sustained by covenant and commitment, not fickle feelings that rise and fall.

On this Valentine’s Day, let us remember that God’s love toward us is not based on feeling, but on covenant. Likewise, our love for spouse, children, and one another should rest in the power of commitment and covenant, not changing feelings. This is what sustains love for the long haul!