WITHOUT BLEMISH | AdventAI

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · May 14, 1902

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 28, No. 20.

WITHOUT BLEMISH.

It is said that one of the largest stones ever quarried in America was provided for a monument to an American soldier. It weighed three hundred and fifty thousand pounds, and was dressed and polished with great care. When ready to be set in its place, it was discovered that one defect in the stone rendered it unfit for the use for which it was intended, and it was rejected. Here was a great waste of time, skill, labor, and money. This stone was designed for an honorable position. It was to have commemorated the deeds of a hero, but at last it was thrown away. It was right except in one place. One flaw spoiled all.

Is it not so with many a distinguished character? God has designed our souls to commemorate His grace and glory throughout the ages of eternity. He has made ample provision for our purification and preparation for this great honor. If we shall stand before Him at last with some flaw, how can He accept us? How shall we be fit for the honor? Here is a character which is all right except one thing. That one flaw is fatal. Sometimes the flaw is secret. The world knows it not. But it will come to light at last.

Who has not known a man who lived a good life to all outward appearance, and yet lived a double life? He was a model in his home, in the church, and in business. He kept his secret till the last. Then like a clap of thunder came the awful revelation, and his son went down behind a dark cloud. Another may have died before his dark secret came to light. He was buried and covered with honors. But afterward it came to light that the life which seemed to men so noble was corrupt and base.

There is no need that such a calamity should happen. Ample provision has been made in Jesus Christ for our thorough preparation for the high honor for which God has designed us. If we will avail ourselves of this provision, we shall be presented before the throne of His glory without blemish. He who takes God with him in everything will be able to sing at last,—

“It is well, it is well with my soul.”

—Christian Advocate.