A God of Second Chances
At the conclusion of The Song of Solomon Conference, everyone is encouraged to fill out a response card. By far the most common response is some form of "I wish I had heard this sooner" (more specifically - "I needed to hear this ___ years ago" or "when I was a teen" or "before my divorce," etc.). I have to agree with these sentiments.

I grew up in the wonderful, carefree 50's. Back then, it was the norm that husbands and wives stayed together and families were intact. Certainly my dreams were to continue that tradition and at the tender age of twelve I penned my first attempt at creative writing. It was a short statement reflecting the ideal life I aspired to: "One God, One Love, and thus One Man."

Fast forward 17 years to the early 70's and to my marriage of 5 years that was slowly falling apart. I felt that I had failed at this most important relationship. And it wasn't just me. Many of this generation that weathered the social changes of the 50's, 60's and 70's also fell victim to marriage breakups and, like me, still deal with the fallout from our choices.

Was it a sign of the times? Perhaps. I'm sure there are many reasons that were both causes and effects of the social changes. Plus, pre-marital programs, materials, and/or counseling were virtually non-existent at this time. At best it was a short, well-meaning talk from the pastor on the values of marriage and faithfulness, a brief rundown on the wedding rehearsal, and a hug and a handshake to send you off to "happily ever after." Gratefully, these talks (and tools) are much deeper and more available now.

All this being said, the great message of hope that the Song of Solomon teaches is two-fold: First, there is a way to follow to try and do relationships right. We can see Solomon and Shulamith's relationship from start to finish and see God's design for marriage. It's a message of truth no matter what stage of life and relationship you currently find yourself in. Secondly, for those of us who have experienced a less than ideal relationship or who currently struggle, we can be encouraged by God's underlying message of love and forgiveness and his merciful way of allowing us second chances. It's a message of hope and guidance that we all can use starting today to help make our relationships - no matter what stage - the very best they can be!