Classic Poem

PARABLE XXVIII

The Importunate Widow.

This parable he likewise spoke,
Religious ardour to provoke,
That men their constant pray'r should plead,
Nor e'er grow languid, or recede.
?There in a certain city dwelt
A judge, whose heart no pity felt,
Nor did he God Almighty fear,
Or any man on earth revere
On him a widow of that place
Attended, and referr'd her case:
‘Avenge me of my foe,’ she cry'd,
Which for long while the judge deny'd:
But when a certain time was past,
He argued with himself at last,
‘Although the Lord I do not fear,
‘Nor any man on earth revere;
‘Yet since this widow day and night
‘Is urgent, I will do her right,
‘Lest by her coming without end,
‘She weary me to death.’—Attend
To what th'unrighteous judge admits,
And shall not God Supreme, that sits
Enthron'd in righteousness, respect
And vindicate his own elect,
Which day and night prefer their pray'r,
Though for a long time he forbear?
I tell you of a truth, indeed,
It shall be done, and done with speed.