The Disregarded Landlord

(loosely based on Jesus’ parable of the tenants: Matthew 21:33-42)

The tenant farmers didn’t care,
and lived a life of ease.
They squandered, left to disrepair,
and did just as they please.

Tornadoes came and did much harm,
with buildings left more damaged.
They felt resentment that their farm,
had been by nature ravaged.

The Owner, landlord, far away
sent word from time to time
that he would come, return one day,
his farm and rents reclaim.

“That’s just to frighten us”, they said,
“he will not come, those notes are lies
from those who want us to feel bad
– such horror stories we despise!”

He also sent to say he’d give
support to those who’d suffered loss,
or even if they’d failed to serve
he’d help if they their sloth confess.

“We do not need to do repairs,
we still can live from what is left,
we don’t believe he is, or cares,
we still will live by so-called theft!”

One day the Owner does return,
all mouths are stopped who want to run,
– why had they chosen grace to spurn?
why had they chosen transient fun?