Song of Solomon 1:2. "Let Him kiss me with the kisses of His mouth; for Your love is better than wine."

These opening words are abrupt, and presuppose that the aspirations of the Church are not unknown. They evince fervent longing for closer manifestations of the love of Christ. Evidence of its nearness is sought. A familiar term gives reality to the desire. "Let Him kiss me with the kisses of His mouth." This act is the outbreak of the warm feeling of a loving parent- of an affectionate brother- of a tender spouse- of a devoted friend. Where love is ardent it thus finds vent. The Church pants to be assured that she has a saving interest in Christ; that His feelings are real and strong, and seeks delight in manifested proofs. She desires to live in the abiding sense of this interest.

Many are the methods of this revelation. In the hours of meditation the Spirit withdraws the veil, and exhibits the Redeemer's heart. In the pages of Scripture He leads to persuasions of this love by the lessons of indisputable facts. Why does Christ assume our nature, put on the rags of mortality, condescend to represent us as bone of our bones, and flesh of our flesh? Why does He lay down His life to buy us from perdition? Why does He work out a perfect obedience to be our robe? Why does He reign at God's right hand, causing all things to work together for our good? Revelation gives the reply. Love prompts Him- love carries Him through the whole work. On every step is inscribed, "He loved me, and gave Himself for me." Clearly to see these blessed truths is to receive the kisses of His mouth.

More glowing evidence cannot be given. The enraptured believer replies, "Your love is better than wine." As wine cheers and exhilarates, so these truths, clearly seen and realized, raise the soul to joys unspeakable. No earthly objects can impart like pleasure. The love of Christ is a cup overflowing with delights. Wine cannot give like gladness to the heart.