Day 197 – Wednesday, 7/16/2025: Song of Solomon 1-2 and Matthew 27-28
Old Testament Reading: Song of Solomon 1-2
New Testament Reading: Matthew 27-28
Daily Psalm/Proverb: Psalm 16
Reflection: The Beauty of Love and the Triumph of the Resurrection
In Song of Solomon 1-2, we are introduced to the passionate love poetry between the bride and the bridegroom, symbolizing a deep, intimate relationship. These chapters describe the beauty of love, both physically and emotionally, and the desire to be with one another. The bride speaks of her longing and admiration for the bridegroom, while he expresses his love for her in equally passionate terms. This book is often interpreted as a celebration of human love, but it also serves as a metaphor for the relationship between God and His people. Just as the bridegroom desires the bride, God desires His people, and our love for Him should reflect the same intensity and devotion.
In Matthew 27-28, we come to the climactic moment of Jesus' earthly ministry—the crucifixion and resurrection. Matthew 27 details the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion: His trial before Pilate, the crowd’s demand for His death, and His suffering on the cross. Jesus’ death is the ultimate expression of God’s love for humanity, as He willingly gave His life for the forgiveness of sins. The moment of His death is marked by supernatural signs, including an earthquake and the tearing of the temple veil, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity.
Matthew 28 brings us to the glorious resurrection of Jesus. On the third day, He rises from the dead, conquering sin and death once and for all. The angel at the tomb announces, "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said" (Matthew 28:6). Jesus’ resurrection affirms the truth of His divinity and His victory over the power of death. In His appearance to the disciples, He commissions them to go and make disciples of all nations, sending them out with the message of hope and salvation.
These chapters remind us of the incredible love Jesus has for us, demonstrated through His sacrificial death on the cross. His resurrection marks the victory of life over death, offering us the hope of eternal life. Just as the Song of Solomon celebrates the beauty of love, Matthew’s account of the resurrection reminds us that God’s love is ultimately victorious.
Key Hebrew Words in Song of Solomon 1-2:
Song of Solomon 1:2 – "Kiss" (נָשַׁק, nashaq): This word is used to express affection, and here it symbolizes intimacy and connection between the bride and bridegroom. It can also represent the closeness between God and His people.
Song of Solomon 2:4 – "Banner" (דֶּגֶל, degel): Degel refers to a flag or banner. In the context of love, it symbolizes a display of affection and protection, much like God's banner of love over His people.
Prayer for Day 197:
"Lord, thank You for the beautiful picture of love in Song of Solomon, which reminds us of the intimacy and passion You desire in our relationship with You. We are grateful for the incredible sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and His victorious resurrection. May we reflect on the depth of Your love and live with the hope of eternal life that comes through Christ. Help us to love You with all our hearts and share Your love with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen."