Reflecting Christ in Friendship
Valentine’s Day is often depicted as a day for romantic love—roses, chocolates, and candlelit dinners for two. But for many women, this holiday can be a poignant reminder of unmet expectations, loss, or loneliness. Let’s change the narrative and make February 14 a day to celebrate all the relationships God has placed in our lives, especially the friendships that sustain us.
The Bible tells us of Jonathan and David’s deep, abiding friendship. In 1 Samuel 18:3, we read: “Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as his own soul.” This picture of loyalty, care, and mutual encouragement reminds us how meaningful friendships can reflect God’s love.
Why not focus on building up the women in your life this Valentine’s Day? Whether it’s your neighbor, coworker, sister, or best friend, here are some thoughtful ways to encourage a woman who might need a reminder of her worth:
1. Send a Bookish Blessing
If your friend is a book lover, surprise her with a Christian fiction or devotional that could uplift her spirit. Tuck in a handwritten note about how the story reminds you of her strength or faith. Sometimes, words on a page are the balm a weary heart needs.
2. Host a Galentine’s Gathering
Invite a few friends over for tea or coffee. Share stories, laughter, and maybe a devotional thought about God’s love and the friendships He gifts us. Consider reading Proverbs 17:17 together: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
3. Write a “Just Because” Card
Sometimes, the simplest gestures have the most profound impact. Write a card that tells your friend why she’s important to you. Point out her kindness, her faithfulness, or how she’s inspired you to grow closer to God. Don’t underestimate the power of your words.
4. Share the Gift of Prayer
Let your friend know you’re praying for her. Then do it—right then and there if you can. Pray for her peace, joy, and strength. Let her know she is never alone because God is always with her, and so are you.
5. Create a “Friendship Jar”
Fill a mason jar with slips of paper containing Scripture verses, encouraging quotes, and personal notes. Each day, she can draw one out and be reminded of how much she’s loved.
Reflecting Christ in Friendship
Jonathan and David’s friendship was built on mutual respect, love, and a shared faith in God. Let’s emulate that kind of selfless love and care this Valentine’s Day by making it Galentine’s Day: an opportunity to reflect the heart of Christ to the women who enrich our lives.
Remember, love is not reserved for couples. It’s for friends, neighbors, and the family we choose. Let’s lift each other up and remind one another of God’s unfailing love.
So, who will you encourage this Valentine’s Day?
P.S. You can gift an eBook copy of Desire of My Heart to a friend during the month of February 2025 for half price!
*Parks and Recreation is an American sitcom from 2009 to 2015. The show is a mockumentary-style comedy that follows the daily operations of the Parks and Recreation Department in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana.
The main character, Leslie Knope (played by Amy Poehler), is an ambitious, optimistic government employee who is passionate about improving her community. The series humorously explores the interactions between her quirky colleagues, the challenges of small-town politics, and the absurdities of bureaucracy. It also highlights themes of friendship, teamwork, and civic engagement.
The show gained a loyal fan base due to its witty humor, heartwarming moments, and memorable characters, such as Ron Swanson, April Ludgate, and Andy Dwyer. It’s also known for coining “Galentine’s Day,” a celebration of female friendships, which Leslie describes as occurring on February 13, the day before Valentine’s Day.
The series Parks and Recreation does include some mild to moderate language, along with occasional crude humor and innuendo. However, it is generally considered less explicit than many other sitcoms of its time. The show is rated TV-PG or TV-14 depending on the episode, reflecting this content.