The Sheaf of Richest Grain by Eben E. Rexford

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 28, 1910

The Sheaf of Richest Grain

By Eben E. Rexford

He saw the ripe wheat waiting, All golden in the sun, And strong and stalwart reapers Went by him, one by one. “O, could I reap in harvest!” His heart made bitter cry; “I can do nothing, nothing, So weak, alas! am I.”

At eve a fainting traveler Sank down beside his door — A cup of cool sweet water To quench his thirst he bore. And when, refreshed and strengthened, The traveler went his way, Upon the poor man’s threshold A golden wheat sheaf lay.

When came the Lord of harvest, He cried, “O Master kind! One sheaf have I to offer, And that I did not bind. I gave a cup of water To one athirst, and he Left at my door in going The sheaf I offer thee.”

Then said the Lord of harvest: “Well pleased with this am I; One of my angels left it With thee as he passed by. Thou mayest not join the reapers Upon the harvest plain, But whoso helps a brother, Binds sheaves of richest grain.”

— Eben E. Rexford, in Sent of God.