This is a passage you probably didn’t expect to see in the Bible! Yet how perfect is this beautiful, tender scene of two lovers about to experience each other for the first time. The use of poetry is such a nice touch. Using slang or medical terms would have just not done justice to this moment. It is clear that God wanted us to know his ideal for the marriage bed and how couples are to relate to each other.
A bit of context may help for just a few of the images we see. When you think of a garden, what do you picture? Rows of beans, corn, and cucumbers, or perhaps a flower garden complete with dirt and weeds? That doesn’t sound all that romantic. For purposes of our reading, picture what would be a garden at the time. A walled off section of a yard, private, and filled with beautiful plants and flowers, a place of respite and tranquility. That sets the scene for the “garden” of our reading just a bit better, I think.
As for the hidden fountain, it might help to know that in those days, fountains were often capped off with clay so that only the rightful owner of the property would have access to the water. The water was not for general consumption. This speaks to Solomon’s joy at knowing his wife was pure, a virgin, saving herself only for him.
Solomon’s words are meant to make Shulamith feel special and treasured. Too many times, we get too busy in our lives and forget to let the people closest to us know how special they are to us. With all that is going on with the pandemic, we are often cut off from the ones we love. What are we doing to stay connected and keep those people feeling special?
As sweet as Solomon is being here, Shulamith is no doubt being blessed by his attention. She has been yearning for him, too. What does she do? She welcomes him. She lets him know that she is ready for him. There was a beautiful build up to their time together. It wasn’t rushed. Solomon waited for her invitation.
As couples, we need to take a lesson from this wedding night scene. Have you ever felt so treasured? Have you ever let your true love know how special they are to you? Don’t think that just because it’s not your wedding night anymore that the romance is gone. Quite the opposite! Don’t let familiarity lead to boredom. There are always creative ways to express your love and appreciation for your spouse.
I read a book that had a list of ways guys could make their women feel pampered and loved. I was super impressed by the creativity of the author who was, believe it or not, a guy himself. He must have one happy wife if he does even half of these things! Here’s one of my favorites from the list (and remember this is asking the man) “Have you ever planned a surprise weekend? You make the reservations and arrange for someone to keep the children for two days. Tell her to pack her suitcase, but don’t tell her where you are going. (Just be sure it’s NOT the Superbowl.) Make it someplace romantic. Cool huh?
Now, think about your relationship with Christ. Is it “comfortable” or are you always hungry to grow closer? Take some time to spend in Jesus’ presence and let him know how much you love him.
Let’s pray … Lord, I thank you for how beautifully this passage speaks to the marital love you want for us. Help me do better at being the spouse I need to be. I also want to draw closer to you and feel you working in my life even more. Continue your work in me and direct my paths to be serving others as you want me to serve. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
