Author Darlene J. Conard

In a dazzling display of royal opulence, the king stood resplendent, his robe flowing like liquid gold as he graciously extended a redemption card toward her. The card shimmered in the light, a key to unlock the beauty that awaited her—a breathtaking garment that hung in the shop’s window like a rare jewel, glistening in the afternoon sun. The dress was a masterpiece, woven with silken threads that sparkled as if kissed by starlight, igniting a deep longing within her soul.

Yet, from behind a wooden counter filled with spools of colorful fabric and the scent of fresh linen, the tailor emerged—a meticulous man with keen eyes and a precision that spoke of years of craftsmanship. He stepped forward, his voice steady and firm. “The king has graciously covered the entire cost of this exquisite dress; however, to keep it in immaculate condition, you must use this specific cleanser.”

Her heart sank a little. “Can’t I use my own cleaner? I possess a special formula that I’ve cherished for years,” she replied, her voice lilting with hope. She envisioned the garment twirling around her at grand occasions, an image marred only by the dark cloud of a compromise.

“That is not an option,” he stated, shaking his head slightly, his face grave with the weight of his responsibility. “This is no ordinary dress. The king has paid in full; anyone who accepts this certificate you hold bears the duty of following the specific care guidelines.” He gestured toward a small bottle sitting on the counter, its sleek design catching the soft glow from the overhead lights. The label shimmered, proclaiming: “Cleans white as snow. Must be applied immediately upon soiling.”

“But I would prefer to use my own cleaner,” she insisted, a thread of desperation weaving through her voice as she clung to the hope of a middle ground.

“That’s not feasible,” he replied, his demeanor resolute. “This garment is not merely an article of clothing. Its value lies in its craftsmanship and the promise it holds. Adopting an alternative method of care would jeopardize its very essence.”

She pressed on, her determination undeterred. “But, sir,” she said, her tone earnest, “I have created an exceptional garment cleaner. It is remarkably effective, I can assure you.”

He scrutinized her thoughtfully, his expression unyielding, then countered with a hint of measured honesty, “Madam, if that holds, then answer me this: why do the garments you wear at this moment seem marred, worn, and perhaps even neglected?” A glimmer of understanding flickered in his gaze.

… “we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.” — Isaiah 64:6 KJV

Imagine a striking scene: a bride walks down the aisle, her wedding gown a chaotic blend of stains and imperfections. The fabric, once lovely and immaculate, is now marred by accidents and rushed preparations. Unsightly stains tarnish its exterior, tattered edges suggest neglect, and uneven rips disrupt its previously graceful shape. An unwanted odor clings to her, adding to the disarray of her appearance and creating a captivating yet heartbreaking contrast to the joyful celebration happening all around her.

This message clearly conveys, “I chose to wear this because I deemed it appropriate.” The Bible is unequivocal about our actions: there is nothing we can do to earn our way into heaven. Jesus has already paid the ultimate price; however, we must actively participate in our salvation by remaining in a state of repentance. It is our responsibility to acknowledge this truth and live accordingly.

• Galatians 2:20 – “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live…”
• Romans 6:11 – “Reckon yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God.”
•  Luke 9:23 – “Take up your cross daily…”

The message conveyed in these scriptures is unmistakable: we cannot persist in our sinful ways, believing that God will simply turn a blind eye to our actions.

“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?”— Romans 6:1-2 KJV

The comforting assurance we have is that we possess an advocate with the Father through Jesus. This advocate is not only compassionate but also faithful and just, truly committed to forgiving us of our shortcomings and transgressions. Through this relationship, we find hope and the promise of redemption, knowing that no matter the depths of our mistakes, we can always turn to Him for reconciliation and grace.

“For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.”— Hebrews 8:12 KJV

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

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