A Lost Opportunity by Walter S. Scott

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 11, 1916

A Lost Opportunity

By Walter S. Scott

WALTER S. SCOTT

ONE beautiful day in June, while engaged in canvassing in one of the rural districts of eastern Ohio, I came to a beautiful mansion, which had but a short time before been purchased by a millionaire. The neighboring farmers told me that this was to be the summer home of the millionaire, and that he was then at the place making plans for improvements. As I desired to meet him, I hastened forward.

On learning that he had just recently undergone a serious operation, narrowly escaping death, I concluded that, with the Lord's help, I could convince him that there is a God, and that he is the One who brought him safely through his serious illness.

Upon nearing the house, I asked the Lord to give me the opportunity of presenting the blessed truth to this man. I entered the yard, and found the millionaire; but when I addressed him and asked for a few minutes of his time, he replied that he was too busy. After being told that I was engaged in Christian work, he replied that he was not interested in such things. Not being able to accomplish anything, I went on.

Several months later I learned that this man, while out in his automobile, had been struck and killed by a train. His probation had closed. Instead of grasping the opportunity to prepare his soul for the heavenly mansion that Jesus had promised, he was busy preparing an earthly mansion for his own pleasure.

So it is with many of us. We are so busy that many times we neglect our most solemn duties toward God. In Christ's Sermon on the Mount, he says, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matt. 7:33.