Mindful of  Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday coinciding this year, I want to share with you a prayer that I received by email. The prayer draws its inspiration from 1 Corinthians 13 verses 4-7 (recommended reading!)  It was compiled by Holley Gerth.
If we put into practice what the prayer suggests, not only on Valentine’s Day but also during Lent , then we will use both to good purpose.

Dear God,
Because love is patient…
Help me to be slow to judge, but quick to listen,
hesitant to criticize but eager to encourage,
remembering your endless patience with me.

Because love is kind….
Help my words to be gentle and my actions to be thoughtful.
Remind me to smile and to say “Please” and “Thank You, ”
because those little things mean so much.

Because love does not envy or boast, and is not proud….
Help me to have a heart that is humble and sees the good in others.
May I celebrate and appreciate all that I have and all that I am,
as well as doing the same for those around me.

Because love is not rude or self-seeking ….
Help me to speak words that are easy on the ear and on the heart.
When I’m tempted to get wrapped up in my own little world,
remind me there’s a great big world out there full of needs and huts.

Because love is not easily angered and keeps no record of wrongs ….
Help me to forgive others as you have forgiven me.
When I want to hold onto a grudge, gently help me to release it
so that I can reach out with a hand of love instead.

Because love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth ….
Help me to stand up for what is right and good.
May I defend the defenseless and help the helpless.
Show me how I can make a difference.

Because love always protects and trusts ….
Help me to be a refuge for those around me.
When the world is harsh and cold,
may my heart be a place of acceptance and warmth.

Finally, because love always perseveres ….
Help my heart continually to beat with love for You and others
and for showing us what that word really means.   

Amen

~ written by Holley Gerth, and posted on Taking it one step at a time. http://onestep87.blogspot.ca/