Classic Poem

PARABLE XXIX.

The Pharisee and Publican.

He too this parable address'd
To men, that pompously profess'd
Themselves in their own works to pride,
And scorn all other folk beside.
Two persons, to prefer their pray'r,
Did to the house of God repair;
One of the Pharisaic clan,
And one a sinful publican.
The Pharisee stood up and pray'd,
And thus within himself he said,
‘I thank thee, God, that I am free
‘From sins, in which the rest agree,
‘That are extortioners, unjust,
‘Or giv'n to foul adult'rous lust,
‘Or like this publican to gold;
‘Twice ev'ry week the fast I hold,
‘And give of all that I possess
‘The tithe in perfect righteousness’
Mean time the publican withdrew
To a more distant point of view,
Nor durst to heav'n exalt his eyes,
But smiting on his breast he cries,
‘The Lord be merciful to me
‘A sinner in the worst degree.’
I tell you fairly of the twain,
The publican went home again
More sure of pardon for his fault.
For those that would themselves exalt,
Shall fall, while heav'n-accepted sighs,
And humble penitents, shall rise.