Have you heard this little story
Of a rabbi and a Christian priest,
Differing in their separate ways,
But are friends, to say the least.
One day, the rabbi asked the priest
In total confidence:
"Could you put up with any man
"That airs his impudence
"When he confesses that he needs
"No sermon nor advice
"From those like you whom he believes
"To be not worldly-wise?"
The priest thought for a moment,
Then answered with some ease,
"A man who frankly speaks his mind
"Is finally at peace
"Not only with himself but God,
"Confession being the bridge
"Across which he could reach the top
"Of his salvation's ridge."
The rabbi shook his head and said:
"There is no way, of course,
"Confession without penitence
"Could be the bridge to cross."
"But," said the priest, "consider this,
"By God's eternal grace,
"We choose two different routes but get
"Together in one place."