Love and Reality

When I read the Song of Songs 8:5-7, I noticed that the young woman in the song depended on Solomon. She was so happy because he offered her the support she dearly needed. But, the young woman also wanted everyone to know that she belonged to Solomon. She understood that if she made a vow to Solomon that, that commitment would be binding. In her mind, she knew that they would have their fare share of trials and tribulations. The young woman was also aware of the fact that she would not be happy all the time. But, she was determined to be committed to Solomon. Despite everything, she vowed to stand by him through thick and thin. The young woman strongly believed that her love for Solomon would grow stronger during the battles that they might face. She was certain her love for Solomon would last forever.

But, there is only One Love that would stand the test of time. The only love that is everlasting is God’s love. And nothing can stand in the way of true love. We can never be separated from Christ’s love. No matter what we’re facing, God’s love will always be with us. His love is a free, precious gift. All we have to do us trust God’s love.

Song of Songs 8:5-7

[the chorus of young women of Jerusalem]

5. Who is this coming from the desert?

She is leaning on her lover.

[the Bride]

I woke you under the apple tree.

It was the place where you were born.

It was the time when your mother struggled at your birth.

6. Keep me near you like a *seal.

Keep the *seal on your arm

because love is as strong as death.

Strong love is as strong as death.

It quickly becomes like a flame.

And that flame becomes a great fire!

7. If love were like fire, then even plentiful water could not put it out.

A river can be powerful.

But nothing can stop our love.

A man might offer all his wealth for love.

But someone else would not want this offer.

How fitting are these verses of “Song of Songs” for you on Valentine’s Day, 14 February 2010? Does it conjure up the romantic in you?

Or does it make you think about love in the real sense of the word?

Prayer: Lord, help us to rely on your love no matter what trials we’re facing. Grant us the grace to share the precious gift of your love with those who don’t know you. Amen.

Be Blessed,
 Cheryl