THE KING’S BUSINESS by Eliza H. Morton

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 19, 1879

“THE KING’S BUSINESS.”

By Eliza H. Morton

It is written in the natural world that there is a great Creator. It is written in the hearts of men that there is a divine Spirit. It is written in the book of revelation that there is an Almighty power. It is written in the history of nations that there is an All-wise King.

“The King’s business” is important—far more important than the culture of farms, the manufacture of useful articles, or the exportation and importation of merchandise. These employments are necessary, but secondary. Overshadowing them all is a higher calling, a primary object—“The King’s business.”

The King’s jewels lie buried among the broken rubbish of earth. Ye busy hands, here is work! Yonder is a precious soul, sad and cast down. A kind word may cause the sorrowing heart to seek the never-failing Fountain of light and life. Yonder is a discouraged brother, faltering and trembling. A helpful act may impart strength to the fainting one, and send him on his way rejoicing. All around you lies the “King’s business.”

“No drones are wanted in the King’s vineyard. “The King’s business demands haste.” The Owner of the ripe grapes is coming soon. The laborers will soon receive their wages. Haste, ye messengers! Haste, ye that “run to and fro”! Haste, ye burden bearers! Haste ye, O vine-dressers!”

The earth groans. Sad hearts agonize. Way-worn feet bleed. The purple clusters of the vine hang ripe and bloated. Oh, haste, ye that do his pleasure. The rumbling of the King’s chariot will soon be heard. The shining retinue of Heaven will soon appear.

O careless worldling, arise! Say ye, “Now for a higher life!” O lukewarm professor, awake! Say ye, “Now for a busier and more useful life!” O faithful Christian, take courage! Say ye, “Now for a swifter race”!

“The King’s business demands haste.”

ELIZA H. MORTON.

Allen’s Corner, Me.