Returning Back to First Love
Happy Valentine's Day from our team to yours! ❤️
We are reminded of a simple but powerful truth: "God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" Romans 5:8
His love for us is inviting and compelling and the invitation this Valentine’s season, is to return to first love. By and through His love we've been forever changed, invited into an eternal relationship with Him, and compelled to Love Him in return. In the midst of ministry, responsibilities, and everyday life, God continually calls us back to the place where everything began -- a heart fully devoted to Him. This first love relationship is the foundation of all we do and we want to invite you into that as well. He is so worth our love, time, affection, & adoration.
Our prayer: Lord tenderize and fan the flame of our hearts --"a smoldering wick he will not snuff out." Draw us deeper into your heart this Valentines Day, that we would know you, the one who is love Himself, who layed down His life for His friends.
The Biblical Significance of Returning to Our First Love
In Revelation, Jesus gives a powerful invitation to His Church:
“Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.” (Revelation 2:4–5)
This passage is not a message of condemnation, but a loving call back to intimacy. God’s desire has always been relationship first -- hearts that burn with affection for Him before anything else. When we return to our first love, passion is renewed, devotion is restored, and our lives begin to flow again from genuine love rather than routine.
Scripture reminds us that “We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). Everything begins with His initiating love. Our worship, obedience, generosity, and service are simply our response to encountering Him again and again.
This season is an invitation for all of us -- personally and as a Crossroads Team -- to come back to that first love, allowing His presence to refresh our hearts and refocus our mission.
The Historical Significance of Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day traces back to the early church and the story of Saint Valentine, a Christian who lived in the third century. Though historical accounts vary, he is remembered for courageously demonstrating Christlike love — even in the face of persecution.
Over time, February 14 became associated with celebrating love and devotion. While culture often focuses on romance, the roots of this day remind us of something deeper: love that reflects faith, sacrifice, and commitment.
As believers, we see Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to celebrate the greatest love story ever told — the love of God for His people.
Celebrate With Us -- We've Met Our Matching Goal!
We are overwhelmed with gratitude to share that we have met our matching goal!
Because of your generosity and obedience, every dollar given was matched. This milestone is not just financial -- it is spiritual. It represents faith in action and partnership in the Gospel.
Thank you for standing with us.
Thank you for believing in this mission.
Thank you for sowing into changed lives.
Above all, we thank God -- the source of every good gift -- for His unwavering love toward us and His faithfulness to provide.
Crossroads exists because God first loved us, and because you chose to respond to that love with generosity.
We are praying blessing, joy, and a fresh revelation of His love over you this season.
With sincere gratitude and faith,
Joseph and the Crossroads Team
