The Song of Songs is beautiful and sensuous love poetry. It was shocking to many in the past, but it was kept in the bible as an allegory of the soul's relationship to God. This passage expresses vitality and life, fruitfulness and joy. The voice of the beloved is even likened to a leaping stag and a tender invitation. Our own soul and human emotions must also be alive and vibrant, and this applies especially in our prayer and our relationship with God. Getting out of our head and more into our heart and body is the first step to experiencing a deepening of our spiritual life.

Elizabeth could feel her child leap within her womb. John the Baptist could sense the energy and life from Jesus - in a sense, he was brought to life merely by the presence of the infant Jesus. It is the same with us - Jesus is the giver of new life, hope, vitality, and joy. Our faith should not be gloomy, fearful, or pessimistic. If our faith does not give us life and joy, we need to take a good long look at ourselves and our attitudes. Jesus came so that we could have abundant life - not just after we die, but also right here and now. Let us accept his gifts with gratitude.