The one I love calls to me.
Arise, my dearest. Hurry, my darling.
Come away with me!
I have come as you have asked
to draw you to my heart and lead you out.
For now is the time, my beautiful one.
The season has changed,
the bondage of your barren winter
has ended, and the season of hiding
is over and gone.
The rains have soaked the earth and
left it bright with blossoming flowers.
The season for singing and pruning
the vines has arrived.
I hear the cooing of doves in our land,
filling the air with songs to awaken you
and guide you forth.
Can you not discern this new
day of destiny breaking forth
around you?
The early signs of my purposes and plans
are bursting forth.
The budding vines of new life are now
blooming everywhere.
The fragrance of their flowers whispers,
“There is change in the air.”
Arise, my love, my beautiful companion,
and run with me to the higher place.
For now is the time to arise
and come away with me.
- Song of Solomon 2:10-13 (The Passion Translation)
This is His invitation to us, individually and as a group. The season has indeed changed. A new day of destiny is at hand. It's time to seek His face, minister to His heart and obtain the fresh oil we will need for our lanterns as we wait for His arrival. The hour is late. Many of us are sensing a greater urgency to pursue His Presence than we have ever felt before.
Others of us feel a sense of sadness that we have not pursued Him as relentlessly as He has pursued us. But there is no condemnation. His mercies are new every morning. You can begin today, right now, to turn away from the distractions of the world, and seek His face. He is, once again, extending His hand to you. Make haste, my Beloved.
Lord, I accept Your invitation and I am humbled by Your great love for me. It is my desire to know You and be known by You. Draw me continually into the secret place with You, and cause my heart to respond with joyful anticipation. I am Yours.