There are times when relationships are tested not only by the distance that separates them, but also by the communication that slowly falters. Some argue that to love is to trust completely without the need to always "keep in touch". But there are others who feel that presence is felt through simple attention, including the news that is shared. Between these two views, we often stand at a crossroads, searching for a way to love that still gives space, but doesn't lose closeness.

In Song of Songs 3:1-11, that struggle comes in a form that is both poetic and honest. The woman searches for the "heart of her heart" on her bed, but does not find it. She does not stop at waiting; she gets up, steps out in the dark of night, walks through the city with a restless heart. Her longing is described as a journey. It moves and refuses to stay still. There is anxiety when the beloved feels far away, as if the bond of love is tested by absence. But mature love does not succumb to distance or silence; it chooses to keep searching. When it finally finds the beloved, it holds on and does not let go. It is not just an emotional embrace, but a commitment born of searching. He even takes her to his mother's house. A symbol of longing for a relationship that is firm, that is recognised, that is rooted. Yet he remains mindful of the prohibition against awakening love prematurely. For true love cannot be forced, it grows in patience.

Then the atmosphere changed. From the silent night to the majestic procession, there is the fragrance of myrrh and frankincense, the strong guard, the glory revealed. What was fought for in the dark is now celebrated in the light. Love is no longer hidden, but glorified.

Friends of the Bible, perhaps we too have been at that crossroads: between making space and maintaining closeness, between trusting and staying present.

Today's meditation reminds us that true love is not born from indifference, but from the courage to seek and stay present. Perhaps by simply saying hello, sincerely asking how you are, or communicating the situation so that misunderstandings do not drag on. Because often what strains a relationship is not distance, but hearts that slowly stop coming closer to each other.

At the same time, love also invites us to be wise and make room for healthy growth in each other. There is a time to seek, a time to wait, and a time to celebrate. Because in the end, mature love is not just about finding, but about daring to fight for. And when it persists through the nights of searching, we learn to be grateful for it, celebrate it, and guard it more fervently.