“I am my beloved’s, and his desire is for me” (Song 7:10).Jesus said, “in the coming age of the resurrection, marrying and marriage will find fulfillment in relationship with me” (Interpretive paraphrase of Lk.20:34-35). “Rejoice, exult, give Jesus the glory—for the marriage of the Lamb has come” (Rev.19:7)—”the day of his wedding—the day of his heart’s rejoicing” (Song 3:11). “Jesus will delight and rejoice over you—bridegroom to to bride” (Isa.62:5)
Lord Jesus, on the “Calendar of Grace” today is the perfect day for remembering and reveling in the only love better than life. The “first splash” of love emanating shock waves of longing and affection since creation. The sonic boom of intimacy and tenderness whose echo reverberates in every great love story since the creation of the cosmos.
Jesus, your great love for us in the Gospel is the meaning, measure, and magnificence of the intimacy and affection we ceaselessly crave. No mortal, no great romance, certainly no “fling” can fill the vacuum inside us uniquely designed and reserved for you. Our sweetest relationships, healthiest marriages, and most endearing friendships are hints and whispers of what belonging to you actually means.
For you are the ultimate Spouse, the one we always wanted—the one with whom we will enjoy perfect connection, bliss, and joy forever. To be a Christian is to say “so long” to singleness and marriage as we have known it. For we are more married to you than we could ever be to a human spouse. Make this our song, joy, and exquisite delight, Jesus. So Very Amen.