In the story of Esther, she spends her time bathing and soaking in extravagant oils. When further preparing to go before the king, she asks what the king would be most pleased with. I have a feeling it was fairly simple, and I am very much convinced that she was beautiful.
I think we need to embrace this mindset when coming before our King. Our question should be, "What can I do that will win your heart, Lord?" rather than "What do I have to do?" This may include time soaking in the extravagant oils of redemption, forgiveness, and grace. Then, wrapping ourselves in a beautiful garment -- an illustration of what is exclusively us. We adorn ourselves with exquisite jewels: purity, integrity, and longing for our King. But the most beautiful and moving part of this illustration is the overwhelming love and acceptance from our King as He draws us into deeper intimacy with Him. We didn't need to smother ourselves in religiosity or even do all of these things to be loved and accepted by Him. But out of worship and utter desire for our King, we do.
