April 17

" H e brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love."

Song of Solomon 2:4

The Song of Solomon is the book of communion. It sets forth the nuptial joys of the heavenly Bridegroom and the bride of His heart as they commune together in the full recognition of mutual love and faithfulness. The bride, in this verse, is seen in the royal banquet hall, delighting in the bountiful provision of her kingly bridegroom, with love’s banner waving overhead. That banner is the standard of the cross. It tells of a love that was stronger than death, which the many waters could not quench. Beneath its folds the loved one enjoys fullest fellowship as she exclaims, “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is toward me” (Song of Solomon 7:10).

Oh, I am my Beloved’s,

And my Beloved’s mine!

He brings a poor vile sinner

Into His “house of wine”!

I stand upon His merit,

I know no safer stand,

Not e’en where glory dwelleth,

In Immanuel’s land.

The bride eyes not her garment,

But her dear bridegroom’s face;

I will not gaze at glory,

But on my King of Grace—

Not at the crown He giveth,

But on His pierced hand:—

The Lamb is all the glory

Of Immanuel’s land.

—Anne Ross Cousin