Here you will find thePoemNaamanof poet John Newton
Before Elisha's gate The Syrian leper stood; But could not brook to wait, He deemed himself too good: He thought the prophet would attend, And not to him a message send. Have I this journey come, And will he not be seen? I were as well at home, Would washing make me clean: Why must I wash in Jordan's flood? Damascus' rivers are as good. Thus by his foolish pride He almost missed a cure; Howe'er at length he tried, And found the method sure: Soon as his pride was brought to yield, The leprosy was quickly healed. Leprous and proud as he, To Jesus thus I came, From sin to set me free, When first I heard his fame: Surely, thought I, my pompous train Of vows and tears will notice gain. My heart devised the way Which I supposed he'd take; And when I found delay, Was ready to go back: Had he some painful task enjoined, I to performance seemed inclined.
