Day 198 – Thursday, 7/17/2025: Song of Solomon 3-4 and Mark 1-2
Old Testament Reading: Song of Solomon 3-4
New Testament Reading: Mark 1-2
Daily Psalm/Proverb: Psalm 17
Reflection: The Beauty of Love and the Authority of Jesus
In Song of Solomon 3-4, the love between the bride and the bridegroom deepens as they express their longing and affection for one another. Song of Solomon 3 describes the bride searching for her beloved and finding him, a powerful image of the pursuit of love and the joy of reunion. The wedding night in Song of Solomon 4 celebrates the intimacy and sacredness of love within marriage. The bridegroom expresses admiration for the bride’s beauty, both outwardly and inwardly, symbolizing the tenderness and adoration that God has for His people. These chapters beautifully illustrate the strength and beauty of love that is committed, pure, and full of admiration.
Just as the bridegroom speaks words of affection over the bride, God speaks words of love over His people. The love described in Song of Solomon points to the deeper relationship we are invited to have with God—one of intimacy, devotion, and deep joy. This is the love that Jesus models for us, willing to sacrifice everything to be united with His people.
In Mark 1-2, we begin to see the authority of Jesus as He starts His public ministry. Mark 1 opens with John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus, and Jesus’ baptism marks the beginning of His mission. He is immediately tested by temptation in the wilderness, but He emerges victorious, demonstrating His sinlessness and complete obedience to the Father. Jesus begins His ministry by calling His first disciples, healing the sick, and casting out demons, showing His power and authority over both spiritual and physical realms.
In Mark 2, Jesus continues to heal and teach, challenging the religious leaders who question His authority. He forgives the sins of a paralyzed man, demonstrating that He has the authority to forgive sins—a claim that only God can make. Jesus calls sinners to repentance and illustrates that His Kingdom is open to all who are willing to follow Him.
These chapters remind us that just as the bridegroom calls the bride to intimacy and love, Jesus calls us to follow Him into a life of righteousness, healing, and service. His authority and compassion show us what it means to live in the Kingdom of God, where all are invited to experience His love and grace.
Key Hebrew Words in Song of Solomon 3-4:
Song of Solomon 3:4 – "Found" (מָצָא, matza): Matza means to find or discover. The bride finds her beloved after a period of searching, symbolizing the joy of reunion and the fulfillment of love that God desires for us.
Song of Solomon 4:7 – "Perfect" (תַּמִּים, tammim): Tammim refers to being complete, without blemish, or whole. The bridegroom describes the bride as "perfect," symbolizing the purity and beauty of the love relationship between God and His people.
Prayer for Day 198:
"Lord, thank You for the beautiful picture of love in Song of Solomon, which reflects the deep love You have for us. May we seek intimacy with You, finding joy and fulfillment in Your presence. We are grateful for the authority of Jesus, who came to heal, forgive, and call us to live in Your Kingdom. Help us to follow Him faithfully and experience the love and grace He offers. In Jesus’ name, Amen."