Love that Grows

Nurturing Your Family While Serving Your Community

Love is in the air with February traditionally being the month when we show affection to those we care about. While some of us aren’t into the somewhat cheesy and commercialized notion of Valentine’s Day, others see it as the time to outwardly show their love by buying cards, chocolates, flowers and gifts. Let’s take a few moments to reflect on love within our families—and the love we spread to our wider communities. The two go hand in hand, and nurturing love at home can lead us to care for others in meaningful ways and service in a way that’s both practical and inspiring.

Love Starts at Home

At its core, love is something we learn in our families. It’s in the way we support each other, forgive one another, and show kindness every day. When we create a loving, nurturing environment at home, it becomes easier to extend that love to the world around us. As families, we can set an example of love that’s patient, kind, and understanding—just as 1 Corinthians 13 reminds us. This strong foundation at home gives us the strength to go out and share that love with others.

Simple Acts of Love

Take a moment to write a heartfelt letter or love note to someone you care about, sharing what they mean to you and expressing gratitude for their presence in your life. Sometimes, the best way to show you care is simply by spending quality time with those you love—whether it’s enjoying a cozy meal together, going for a walk, or just listening to one another. It’s the little things—intentional, personal touches—that make all the difference, creating lasting memories and deepening the bonds of love.

Love is in the air at UCB Radio! We want to hear your sweetest love notes. RECORD YOUR MESSAGE and we’ll play it on air! You can WIN a romantic Valentine’s Day prize pack.

Love is patient, love is kind - 1 Corinthians 13

Serving Together Strengthens Bonds

There’s something special about serving others as a family. When we give our time and energy to help those in need, we not only make a difference in our community, but we also grow closer to each other. Volunteering together creates memories and deepens the bonds between family members. Plus, it’s a way to teach our kids (and remind ourselves) that love isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we do. God showed us what true love looks like—selfless, humble, and full of grace. When we serve our neighbors, we’re following His example and showing the world what it means to love like He did.

Hope Together

Our UCB Radio family, together with you—our listeners and community partners—brought joy and support to deserving families across Canada facing difficulties at Christmastime through our Hope Together campaign. With your help, we helped make a heartfelt difference in their lives during the holiday season, which can be the most challenging time for many people. We’ve reached out to each family to see how they are doing:

The Watson Family from Belleville

Robyn, Gus and their 8 year old daughter, Olivia from Belleville, Ontario are continuing their journey navigating the hardship of the Cancer diagnosis that Gus is living with. The good news is that they are facing it with newfound strength and hope.

Robyn and Olivia received personalized necklaces from Starfish Project, among other blessings. Robyn says “I now have Liv and Gus around my neck and she has Daddy”. Robyn’s necklace was engraved with Gus’ full name and Olivia’s was engraved with “Daddy”. This melts our hearts.

Robyn and Olivia right after they opened their necklaces from Starfish Project

Watch the Reveal Video

The Hunter Family from Regina

Kory, Natalie, and their four kids are a beloved family, always found either serving at their church or cheering on their kids at the basketball court. But this year, everything changed when Kory was diagnosed with a brain tumor that doctors cannot operate on. They’ve received many blessings through Hope Together including tickets to watch the Harlem Globetrotters and a sleigh ride at Dallas Valley Ranch.

Tim, their new friend and nominator (who also has a brain tumor) sent us this update on the family:

“I just wanted you to know how much UCB’s Hope Together has given fresh breath into their home. The poster is up, the kids are happily distracted and looking forward to going to the globetrotters with dad, compared to counting down the days left with dad. This is So huge.” Hallelujah!

The Hunter family soaking up their love for basketball watching the Harlem Globetrotters

The Hunter family enjoying a sleigh ride at Dallas Valley Ranch

Watch the Reveal Video

Darwyn and Family from Saskatoon

Darwyn, a single father of five from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan is continuing to care for his family while enjoying the gifts of groceries, fun quality time with the family, new living room furniture and help with much needed car repairs. These blessings are allowing him to enjoy the everyday and provide for his family without having the stress of worry weighing him down.

Darwyn and his son chose a brand new sofa for his living room

Watch the Reveal Video

Simple Ways to Serve as a Family

If you’re looking for ways to serve together as a family this Valentine’s season (and beyond), here are a few simple ideas that can have a big impact:

Bake and deliver treats for first responders, healthcare workers, or anyone who might need a little extra love.

Check in on elderly neighbors or church members who may be feeling lonely—maybe with a phone call or a card to brighten their day.

Pack care packages with essentials like toiletries or snacks for people in need.

Volunteer as a family at a local shelter or food bank, or help clean up a park or neighborhood.

Donate gently used clothing or toys to a local charity or organization or give what you can afford to a local charity, like UCB Radio that speaks to your heart.

The best part? These activities don’t just help others; they also strengthen your family. You’ll find that serving together brings you closer, gives everyone a shared sense of purpose, and helps you practice kindness, generosity, and love in action. When we serve others, we reflect the love Christ has shown us. It’s in the small acts of kindness that we can truly show what love is all about.

Wrapping Up

So, as we celebrate Valentine’s Day, let’s remember that love isn’t just about flowers and chocolates (though those are nice!). It’s about nurturing the relationships in our families and extending that love to others. When we love each other at home, we’re better equipped to show that same love to our communities. Let’s make love a daily practice—both in our families and in how we serve those around us.