Scripture for Today: Song of Solomon 2:1 “I am a Rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.”

The red rose has long symbolized romance and true love. We are at that time of year when large bouquets of roses are available for the upcoming Valentines Day. But even a single red rose says “love.” At my wedding each bridesmaid carried a simple long-stemmed red rose, coordinating with my own bouquet. Roses communicate not only love but also beauty, passion and purity. The image above marries that single red rose with the lily of the valley, a white delicate flower. The lily symbolizes purity and humility, sweetness and beauty.

Today’s verse comes from a book of poetry filled with metaphors and allegory. The literature is erotic and a surprise to read in the Bible! Though its verses refer to human love, its deeper meaning refers to Christ and His tremendous love for His own. There are different ideas about which flowers are referred to in the original Hebrew. But the point is to picture the potential depth of feeling there can be in a personal relationship with Christ.

What a contrast this picture presents to the widespread feelings about “religion!” My relationship to Christ has very little to do with a list of do’s and don’t’s. I am not living under a heavy burden of obligation, ritual or man-made tradition. My relationship to Jesus is a love-relationship, not only individually but as part of the Church, His Bride! There is not another human relationship that comes even close to the intimacy I can have with Him! He knows my heart and He loves me anyway. He loved me enough to die in my place so that we could share this incredible love!

Lord, Your love, like Your grace is amazing!