"But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield." Psalm 5:11-12

I stopped in Safeway this morning to pick up a few things and had to weave my way through pink coffee mugs, flowers, teddy bears, and stacks of chocolate boxes. This is the week - the week of love - Valentines day - with some heavy advertising before and after.  For some, this week is full of anticipation and fun. For others, it is a week to get through unscathed.

I believe it is also a week to check our hearts. Who are we taking refuge in? Who are we looking to for protection, fulfillment, perfect love? Our spouses? Our kids? Who are we hoping will not disappoint us this week?

"Lord Jesus, this week is full of the abundance and absence of love for many of us. No matter how hard we try, or those who love us try, we will never be fully satisfied and never be able to perfectly meet the needs of those around us. Give us the grace to first receive YOUR love, let it change the very marrow of our bones and cause us to move and act and speak from that place of love. Guard our hearts from trying to grasp life from anything or anyone but You. You promise unfailing love. Thank you! amen."

May this week be FULL of love from God to you. May you deeply know His Presence, recognize His voice, and sense His good company with you always. And from that grounded place - may you give and receive love freely and graciously this week!