Pathways Press.com

Written by Gregory the Great (c540-604), Catholic Pope known for instituting the first recorded large-scale mission from Rome to convert the then largely pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity.

We must take note that in the sacred scriptures, the Lord sometimes calls himself “Lord,” sometimes “Father” and sometimes “Bridegroom.” For when he wishes to be feared, he calls himself “Lord;” when he wishes to be honored, “Father;” when he wishes to be loved, “Bridegroom.” As honor is more worthy than fear, God rejoices much more to be called “Father” than “Lord.” As love is dearer than honor, God rejoices much more to be called “Bridegroom” than “Father.” The Lord and the church are therefore not called “Lord” and “Handmaiden” in the Book of Songs but “Bridegroom” and “Bride” so that he may be eagerly served not only in fear and in reverence but also in love and so that a deep interior attachment to God may be aroused by this exterior language. When he calls himself “Lord,” he indicates that we have been crated by him; when he calls himself “Bridegroom,” he indicates that we have been united to him. Moreover, it is far more significant to be united to God than to be created and adopted by him. Therefore, when “Bridegroom is written, something quite lofty is conveyed since it reveals the bond of union.

I will betroth you to me forever; I will betroth you in righteousness and justice, in love and compassion. I will betroth you in faithfulness,  and you will acknowledge the Lord. [Hosea 19-20]