1 Must all the charms of nature then So hopeless to salvation prove? Can hell demand, can heaven condemn The man whom Jesus deigns to love?
2 The man who sought the ways of truth, Paid friends and neighbours all their due, (A modest, sober, lovely youth) And thought he wanted nothing now.
3 But mark the change! thus spake the Lord, "Come, part with earth for heaven to-day," The youth astonish'd at the word, In silent sadness went his way.
4 Poor virtues that he boasted so, This test unable to endure; Let Christ, and grace, and glory go To make his land and money sure.
5 Ah foolish choice of treasures here! Ah fatal love of tempting gold! Must this base world be bought so dear? Are life and heaven so cheaply sold?
6 In vain the charms of nature shine, If this vile passion govern me: Transform my soul, O love divine, And make me part with all for thee.