The Two Prayers by Mrs. L. R. Reynolds

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 14, 1912

The Two Prayers

By Mrs. L. R. Reynolds

MRS. L. R. REYNOLDS

In olden times, on a certain day, Two men went up to the temple to pray; Or one went to pray, but the other to boast; Now which do you think received the most? The boastful one was a Pharisee; A very self-righteous man was he, Who stood, and prayed with himself, and then Thanked God he was not like other men. He felt so sure he was righteous and good, As he looked across where the other stood, That he said, “Thank God, I am not like such,” Then he told of his alms, and boasted much. He extolled his deeds, and with eyes aloft, He told the Lord that he fasted oft. But he never confessed a sin in his prayer, Nor asked for mercy while standing there. And the publican prayed, but he did not dare To lift his eyes while he uttered his prayer. That he was a sinner he there confessed, And he begged for mercy, and smote his breast. His sins pressed heavy, he felt his need; That God be merciful did he plead; But he went from the temple justified, Rather than he who prayed in his pride.

Wichita, Kans.