“My sister, My spouse” (Song of Solomon 4:12)

Christ, the heavenly Solomon speaks to His Church. He says "My sister” to the one who’s nearest to Him with natural bonds. He says “My spouse” to the one who’s dearest to Him in love. “My sister” by His incarnation, which makes Him bone of her bone and flesh of her flesh. “My spouse” by marriage, which could only take place because He sacrificed Himself to make her holy. 

 Christ is not ashamed of His Church, but boasts of His two-fold relationship with us. He uses the word "My" twice, because He enjoys showing us off as His possession. 

 God’s "delight was with the sons of men” (Proverbs 8:32) because those sons of men were His chosen ones. The Shepherd sought the sheep, because they were His sheep (John 10:14); “The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10) because that which was lost was His long before it was lost to itself or lost to Him. The Church is the exclusive inheritance of the Lord, so no one else can claim ownership, or share her love. 

 “Oh, my soul, Christ is bound to you with bonds of marriage. He grasps both your hands and says, "My sister, My spouse." His double hold on you will never let you go. “Oh Lord God, I belong exclusively to You! My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in Your house Forever” (Psalms 23:5-6).