Daily Truth:   “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three:  but the greatest of these is love.”  1 Corinthians 13:13

On Valentine’s Day love is written on conversation hearts, chocolates, and cards. Children make cards and parents buy cards to share on this special day.   According to Hallmark, 1,400 billion cards are made for Valentine’s Day.  Valentine’s Day is second only to Christmas in the amount of cards mailed.

There are thousands of books, poems, and songs written about love. Artwork, both paintings and sculptures depict this.   We long for and seek after love.

Why is love so important?  We are made in the image of God. (Genesis 1:27)  So we are made for love.

The Greek word “agape” is the type of love that means love, dear, and charity.

The greatest of faith, hope, and love is love.  “And we have known and believed the love that God has for us.God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.”  1 John 4:16

This Valentine’s Day share love with your neighbors, family, and friends.  Make cookies and cards or do an act of kindness to share God’s love.   Teach your children about sharing with others.  True love is found in what God did for us by sending His only Son, Jesus Christ, to earth for us. Love is all about giving.

Below is a tried and true sugar cookie recipe to share with family and friends. Decorating cookies with your children is fun and sharing the finished product brings even more joy.

Sugar Cookies

2/3 cup shortening

3/4 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 egg

4 teaspoons milk

2 cups sifted all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Thoroughly cream shortening, sugar, and vanilla.  Add egg and milk; beat till light and fluffy.  Sift together dry ingredients; blend into creamed mixture.  Cover and chill at least one hour.  On lightly floured surface, roll to 1/4 inch thickness.  Cut in desired shapes with cutters.  Bake on ungreased cookie sheet at 375 degrees about 8 to 10 minutes.  Cool slightly; remove.  Add frosting and decorate as desired. This recipe will make about 24 heart shaped cookies.

Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your family.

“Faith, hope, and love… the greatest of these is love.”

Until the next “Truth” sharing moment,

Cathy Jo Johnson