Thursday 26 March 2026

Psalm 105:4-9

Background
‘Desire’ is a key word here. At one level, it reminds us of the intense emotional and sexual desire that lovers can have for one another. Such desire can be a God-given gift, forging a union between two people to their mutual benefit. But human desire, as we know all too well, can easily become disordered and destructive. There is a dark and dangerous aspect to human sexuality, as well as a joyful, life-affirming one. These notes are being written while the fall-out from the abusive crimes of Jeffrey Epstein is prominent in the news, reminding us of the ways in which human sin leads some powerful people – usually men – to exploit and harm others – usually women.

So, alongside the affirmation of human sexual love, this passage can point to the way in which God shapes and disciplines our desire. Christians see Jesus modelling God’s desire for us through  a love that is non-coercive and self-giving. Reading the Song of Solomon during passiontide, we can enter more deeply into the mystery of Jesus’ death on the cross and the love that led him there.

To Ponder:

• How do you distinguish between healthy and unhealthy desire? In what ways might the story of Jesus help you to make that distinction?

Prayer
You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless till they rest in you. Amen. (St Augustine)

Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Richard Clutterbuck
Richard is a supernumerary presbyter, living in Gloucestershire after a ministry that has taken him to Tonga, London, Gloucester and Belfast. He was formerly Principal of the West of England Ministerial Training Course and of Edgehill Theological College.