I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine
Song of Solomon 6:3
Fourteen years ago today, Kimberly and I were joined together in holy matrimony. On that day (don’t worry, I double-checked with her about the date) we both said, “I do,” and truly became each other’s beloved. We are no longer our own; we now belong to each other and always will – for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health. Our anniversary is a great opportunity for us to reflect on our relationship, to give thanks for each other, and to strive to love each other in new and meaningful ways, both in word and in deed.
Throughout Scripture, God uses the metaphor of marriage to describe His relationship to His people. In the Old Testament, He calls Himself Israel’s husband (Jeremiah 31:32); and when they worship idols they are called “adulterous” (Ezekiel 16:32), as if they have cheated on their spouse! Jesus refers to Himself as a bridegroom (Mark 2:18); and in Revelation the Lamb’s bride has made herself ready for the feast (Revelation 19:7).
Turning to the Song of Solomon, the Church has long read this as a love poem about Christ’s relationship with us. Jesus has made Himself our beloved, and He calls us His beloved. Isn’t that absolutely beautiful?
So deep is the Father’s love for us, that He sent His Son – the bridegroom – into the world to redeem us, to forgive us, and to forever join us to Himself. Even in 2020, we can be confident that there is absolutely nothing that can separate us from the perfect love of Christ. Why? Because we are no longer our own; we now belong to Him and always will – for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.
As we head into Christmas Day and celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, let us remember that this Jesus is fully committed to loving us forever and forevermore. Let us reflect on that glorious relationship He has begun with us. Let us give thanks for all He is and all He has done for us. Let us strive to love Him in new and meaningful ways, both in word and in deed.
Afterall, we are our Beloved’s and our Beloved is ours. To Him be the glory, now and forever. Amen!
God bless you!
BJ
