John 20 & Song of Songs

Interestingly, the Common Worship lectionary for this evening appoints Song of Songs 3:2-5 and John 20:11-18.

In addition, Mary finds Jesus in a spice filled garden.

As a woman searches for the man she loves in a garden perfumed with spices, we might think of the Song of Songs with the beloved seeking her lover, that picture of the relationship between the Lord and his people, Christ and the church.

cf. Song 1:3, 12; 3:6; 4:6, 10; 5:1, 13