Find the full text of the homily here.
Resources for Further Reflection
Song: “How Sweet it is to be Loved by You” by James Taylor
This song has been on my mind playing over and over this week as this homily came together. I wonder how it, like the Song of Songs, could reflect the love God has for humanity and for each one of us?
Book: Meditations on the Song of Songs by St. Teresa of Avila
I briefly mention Teresa of Avila’s high regard for the Song of Songs in the homily. Here is a free version of a collection of her meditations on the book (link above). St. Teresa of Avila was a 16th century Spanish Carmelite nun and mystic extremely significant to the life of the historical church. She was the first woman ever named a “doctor of the church” which means her writings hold a special status for being timeless and theologically astute. She is also the one from whom we get the phrase “Christ has no body now but ours” in our Prayers of the People.
Book: Sermons on the Song of Songs by St. Bernard of Clairvaux
Again, I briefly mention Bernard of Clairvaux’s high regard for the Song of Songs as well. Here is a free version of a collection of his sermons on the book (link above). Bernard of Clairvaux was a 12th century French Cistercian/ Benedictine monk who was also named a “doctor of the church” by Pope Pius VIII in 1830.
Song: “Take it Easy” by the Porter’s Gate
Yet another song from my favorite contemporary worship group! The measure of our faith is how well we have received the love of God. Let this song be a prayer to help you internalize that truth.
Thoughts on Faith 