I do question the validity of the legends of the origins of valentine's day. While each are interesting, there is more than one, and they are in direct opposition. I would need more research than this topic deserves. However, my favorite story is that which Catholicism embraces.
In the third century, the Roman Emperor allegedly outlawed marriage for young men so that they would be more inclined to dedicate their entire lives to his military. A proponent of the Catholic Church, Saint Valentine stood firmly against this social movement.
Valentine performed marriages in rebellion and was executed by Roman authorities. I think the story indicates that he was executed on February 14th.
However, pagans will testify that Christians deemed February 14th a Christian holiday in an effort to Christianize a holiday which they held. Pagans also made this claim about their winter solstice, which Christians usurped by claiming that the birth of Jesus Christ was in late December (though biblical texts and historical data indicate that Jesus was born in early autumn).
Though pagans were correct in their assertion about winter solstice, it is difficult to assess that Christians did the same with the death of Saint Valentine. It is all but impossible to know the truth.
Despite that we cannot know the origin of the holiday, its' nature does not change. It is a celebration of the earthly element that is most reflective of Heaven. It is a celebration of that which Jesus Christ preached so adamantly about.
The great Messiah told us that in all contexts, it is our love that we must hold dear. It is love that we must embrace. When wielding the Christian doctrine and the teachings of Jesus Christ properly, not even your enemies can draw anything other than love from you.
During this Valentine's day, think not of the origins of such a day, but rather, be thankful that such a day exists. It is a day that we can exalt what Jesus Christ confirmed that we need to hold dear.
"A new command I give to you. Love each other, as I have loved you." John 13:34
"Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law." Romans 13:8
"With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love." Ephesians 4:2
"Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses." Proverbs 10:12
"You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven." Matthew 5:43
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