A Wealthy Father Knew

A wealthy father knew
What his child really needed
First, wisdom and stature, too
Must be taught and must be heeded

In good standing among men
This father had wealth and position
But, what of his son? What would cause him
To go through this process of conversion?

The father challenged the son
To learn all the things he had learned
And do all the things he had done
That, he'd see and know what he must earn

At last, came the day of measuring
What had the son done and become?
What he'd been taught, was he treasuring?
Well, he'd mastered the challenge. He'd won!

All the father's life work
Would not be lost or wasted
As from labor the boy did not shirk
And on his servants, he waited

Humble and willing
Persistent and giving
The son fought off greed
And served beyond his needs

The father in delight
Could now retire
For now all was right
With his hearts desire

The sum total of good and evil acts
Shows best of what we've become
It's not based on knowledge or facts
Whether we're fit for a royal kingdom

Elder Dallin H. Oaks
The Challenge to Becom
LDS Devotional