Daily Readings - Sat Jul 22 2017
First Reading - Song of Solomon 3.1-4a
Song of Solomon
1Bride: On my bed, throughout the night, I sought him whom my soul loves. I sought him, and did not find him2I will rise up, and I will circle through the city. Through the side streets and thoroughfares, I will seek him whom my soul loves. I sought him, and did not find him3The watchers who guard the city found me: "Have you seen him whom my soul loves?4When I had passed by them a little, I found him whom my soul loves. I held him, and would not release him, until I would bring him into my mother’s house, and into the chamber of her who bore me
Sermon
The passage from Song of Solomon 3:1-4a presents a vivid and intimate dialogue between a bride and her beloved, set against the backdrop of a nighttime search through the city. The bride, driven by deep longing, seeks her beloved relentlessly, questioning the city guards until she finally finds him. Her determination is unwavering, and once reunited, she vows to bring him into the heart of her family home, symbolizing a deep desire for union and connection.
This poetic text is part of the Song of Solomon, a book celebrated for its rich imagery and allegorical interpretations. Often seen as an allegory of God's love for humanity or the Church's relationship with Christ, the passage underscores the theme of persistent and passionate pursuit. The bride's journey mirrors the spiritual quest for divine connection, emphasizing perseverance and intimacy in one's faith journey.
In our daily lives, this passage encourages us to embrace a similar perseverance in our spiritual pursuits. Just as the bride does not falter in her search, we are called to remain steadfast in our faith, even when challenges arise. The transformative power of such a deep union with God invites us to bring His presence into the core of our lives, much like the bride brings her beloved into her mother's house. This passage reminds us that our spiritual journey is one of relentless seeking and profound transformation, leading us closer to the divine.