Listening for the Turtledove

By Rev. Talitha Arnold

The flowers appear on the earth; the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land. The fig tree puts forth its figs, and the vines are in blossom; they give forth  fragrance. - Song of Songs 2:12-13 (NRSV) 

  

Abundance. I think that’s what the Song of Songs is about. The abundance of flowers, beautiful sounds, and fragrances. To be sure, Christian scholars don’t agree as to whether that abundance is Christ’s love for the Church or the love between two people. Either way, joy and delight abound. 

 

I often need that message. Whether in my human relationships or my relationship with the church—the one I serve or the Church Universal—it’s easy to focus on deficits instead of delights. Song of Songs reminds me to shift my perspective, open my soul, and pay attention. 

 

Like the rest of the Hebrew Bible, Song of Songs was written in a desert land. Its vision of spring flowers and blossoming vines isn’t tulip time in Holland. Desert flowers are often tiny and hidden in the shade of trees and rocks. Even hillsides of poppies fade as temperatures rise. Seeing the desert’s abundant beauty requires intentionality. 

 

So does hearing the voice of a turtledove. Unlike chirping sparrows, a turtledove coos low and softly. It’s easily drowned out by other noises. Listening closely for its gladsome song is a necessity—just as it is with the church.  

 

My Sunday hadn’t started well—a staff member and two greeters were sick, it was hot, I’d forgotten to open the windows, etc. etc. etc. Alone in the kitchen before the service, I was far from joyous. But then I heard people walking into the Sanctuary—their lilting voices sharing their delight at being together, coming for worship, enjoying another Sunday. It was the voice of the turtledoves heard in our land.  

 

Prayer

Thank you, God, for your abundance.