By: Ma. Cristina P. Lao
It all started in the third century, when the Roman Emperor Claudius
ordered his empire to worship only twelve God's and not to associate with
Christians. People who disobeyed him would have to face death. Valentinus on the other hand was a devoted priest
and physician who kept on practicing his Christian beliefs. Because of this, he
was arrested and imprisoned.
While in prison, a jailer saw that Valentinus was a man of
knowledge. He asked Valentinus if he was willing to offer lessons to his blind
daughter Julia. Though she was blind she
was beautiful and has a quick mind. Valentinus taught her history, described what
the world looks like in his eyes and most importantly told her about God.
On the eve of his death, Valentinus wrote a farewell note to
Julia with a crocus yellow flower inside and said in his letter... "Stay
close to God" and signed it, Your Valentine.
He was beheaded and died on February 14, 270 A.D on Via Flaminia in the
north of Rome.
When the jailer went home, he hands her the letter and the
moment she opened it, she saw brilliant colors for the first time. Now she can
see! She was blind and now she can see! A miracle!
This part of history would only mean that Valentines is
about self sacrifice and to care and love one another in the name of God.
What does it mean to you?
