Mark 7:5-7 (NIV)
So the Pharisees and teachers of the law asked Jesus, “Why don’t your disciples live according to the tradition of the elders instead of eating their food with `unclean’ hands?” [6] He replied, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: ” `These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. [7] They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.’

Today is the anniversary of the day that a Roman Christian named Valentinus was tortured and murdered for trying to convert the emperor.

Doesn’t really match overpriced bonbons.

The business of following Jesus is deadly. Isaiah himself was believed to be martyred by Manasseh.

But we all know a talisman of love is cheaper than real love.

God is about real love. His love letters to us are everywhere and He wants our hearts.

Most of us would prefer the hand-washed appearance of solidarity than the cost of true love.

But if we choose the narrow road and follow after True Love, the results are eternal, unmistakable and dear.