To Mary P., A Young Christian
Mary, thy choice is made— “the better part,”
In former days another Mary’s choice;
The Lord is glad to see thy youthful heart
So early drawn to hear thy Shepherd’s voice;
And that His love hath taught thee to despise
All that this world counts good, or great, or wise.
Men saw no beauty in His holy face;
They found no wisdom in His heavenly Word;
Their hearts they bowed not to His tender grace,
They scorned to have the Saviour for their Lord.
But ‘tis thy joy to sit at Jesus’ feet,
And to thy heart no words like His are sweet.
Let others scorn thy portion, care not thou;
Look up, and hear thy gracious Lord approve:
The smile that beamed like sunshine from His brow
On Mary, still attends those words of love,
“Wise is her choice, hers is the better part;
And none shall take it from her longing heart.”
Soon will the Master come: soon pass away
Our times of conflict, grief, and suffering here;
Our night of weeping end in cloudless day,
And sorrow’s moment like a dream appear:
Eternity—with Jesus—in the skies—
How soon that Sun of Righteousness may rise!
We shall behold Him, whom not seen we love;
We shall be with Him, whom we long to see;
We shall be like Him, fit for realms above;
With Him, and like Him, for Eternity!
Is now to sit at Jesus’ feet thy choice?
How will fruition then thy soul rejoice!