We beg you,
mend the ways of pretend mendicants,
imposters who pose pious and pitiful
on our staked-out streets.
Uncover the shades of the blind
who really see, the crippled who limp
selectively in rich company.
Competition is keen;
let’s keep the neighborhood clean
of riff-raff and rabble-rousers,
hypocrites hogging the best hovels,
preying on the easiest weak.
We give our dutiful mite,
pull pennies from our palms,
cough-up an ungodly percentage
for each street corner converted
to our enterprising petitions.
Blessed are we the paupers
of prayerful panhandling.
We beseech you, then, oh Saints,
open your holy hearts
and wallets, and let us in.
Time is short, so I’ll be direct: FIRST THINGS needs you. And we need you by December 31 at 11:59 p.m., when the clock will strike zero. Give now at supportfirstthings.com.
First Things does not hesitate to call out what is bad. Today, there is much to call out. Yet our editors, authors, and readers like you share a greater purpose. And we are guided by a deeper, more enduring hope.
Your gift of $50, $100, or even $250 or more will bring this message of hope to many more people in the new year.
Make your gift now at supportfirstthings.com.
First Things needs you. I’m confident you’ll answer the call.
