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The Rich Young Ruler

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 31, 1908

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 85, No. 53.

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The Rich Young Ruler

By Mrs. Edith B. Goodrich

MRS. EDITH B. GOODRICH
The rich young ruler! how our sympathy Goes out to him as e'en the Saviour's did!
In fancy we behold the youthful form, The graceful locks by silken turban hid, The velvet robe, token of wealth and power,— O rich young ruler! O momentous hour!
“What must I do eternal life to gain?” This was the burden of his youthful soul.
“If thou indeed the priceless pearl seek, wouldst win, God's laws regard. Observe and do the whole.”
Two rulers—face to face—O touching scene! With holy angels hovering between!
“His precepts have I kept from youth till now.” Then Jesus, gazing on him, loved him much; He yearned to break base mammon's powerful snare, And draw the rich young ruler by his touch.
*“One thing thou lackest; thy possessions sell,— Then come and follow me; and all is well.”*
The ministering angels now their influence lend. 'Tis mercy's hour—'tis Christ himself who pleads! A universe awaits the drama's turn; O rich young ruler! wilt thou sense thy needs?
No! sad, sad hour! Behold, he turns away,— The price desired, the price too great to pay!
Rich rulers of the modern world to-day, O men of rank, of station, wealth, and power, The gracious Ruler of the universe Pleads with you now in mercy's lingering hour! What your decision? Choose, O choose to-day, Nor let base mammon o'er your lives hold sway!
Meadow Glade, Wash.