Quote:

“She was one of those, who, having once begun, would be always  in love.” ―Jane Austen, Emma

Context:

Happy Valentine’s Day! This week is a perfect time to revisit some of the many wholesome literature romances out there. Jane Austen has been a lifelong beloved Regency era author of mine and my family’s for generations! I was mesmerized by the balls and outfits in the movies that I watched with my Grandpa. As a three year old I requested a “birthday ball” for my next birthday party. It was undoubtedly the most incredible celebration I will ever attend!

As a teen, I still treasure Austen's narratives in my heart. She did an incredible job writing romances modeling adoration, devotion, sacrifice, and the Fruits of the Spirit! Here’s where I personally see in them the strongest:

Pride and Prejudice showcases Love conquering obstacles: social status, the characters’ own negative thoughts and opinions of each other—even meddlesome family. Despite all, Love wins—much like Jesus’ Love for us. No mountains too high, no ocean’s too deep. His love will find you and what a Joy it will be!

Persuasion presents us with Anne and Captain Wentworth who were once lovers—before being forced apart by ill advice. Yet their hearts never stopped searching for each other. We too stray from our True Love. But Jesus came so that we could be together again, and finally find true Peace being held safe in the arms of the One who loves us most.

Emma is filled with matchmaking mishaps and romantic comedy, brimming with Patience, Kindness, and Faithfulness—similar to how God cares for us. We, like the well-meaning characters of Emma, are far from perfect and never will be. We mess up and wander from the Path, but like Mr. Knightley doesn’t give up on Emma, God doesn’t give up on us either.

Northanger Abbey’s Catherine and Mr. Tilney, in my opinion, are one of the sweetest Austen relationships. Catherine’s head is full of questionable stories, but her heart is pure. Mr. Tilney shows steadfastness and Goodness towards her. Naively following the lead of your peers, or being too focused on how you wish life was, can prevent you from seeing the goodness that exists in your world without the things society tries to convince you are right and fulfilling.

Sense and Sensibility immerses us in love made complete by the companionship of Gentleness and Self-Control. Long before they ended up with the Dashwood sisters, Colonel Brandon and Mr. Ferrars were showing these Fruits towards them, and their relationships were built upon these stones. These may seem like simple attributes, but they can change hearts. I mean, hey—they got these men wives!

Writing this, I’ve found all of the Fruits in many of these relationships—which shows Jane Austen’s faith and being a preacher’s daughter shining through in the best way!

Enjoy your Valentine’s Day, and be sure to take out your favorite Austen novel for a fond reread! And if you’ve never read Jane’s works, take this as a sign that the time has come to dive into some of the most beloved classics of the last 200 years.

“But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

Written by: Inara Sautter