The Ethiopic Didascalia

Section 17

XIX. That it is required of the Unmarried Women, and Widows, that they receive that which is bestowed upon them thankjully. Let us exhort the unmarried women and widows to receive that which the Lord giveth them, with thanksgiving, with fear and trembling; and let them give thanks unto the Lord, who giveth food to the hungry. Who is there of you that eateth and drinketh in moderation? Is it not the Lord that hath given it to him? He stretcheth out his hand, and multiplieth good things according to his will; He giveth corn to the young men, and wine to the maidens, and the oil of gladness to all that live; He giveth food to the cattle, and liberty to the servants, and flesh to the beasts of the field, and fruits to the birds, and food to all, such as is fitting for them. Wherefore also our Lord saith. Be ye like unto the birds, which sow not, neither reap, nor gather into barns; yet your Father which is in heaven feedeth them: and far better are ye than many birds. Take no thought, saying. What shall we eat? or. What shall we drink? or. Wherewithal shall we be clothed? for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But if ye desire to receive his good things, and inherit his kingdom, offer unto Him praises and thanksgiving and blessing. And unto those who receive the widow and the fatherless, God the Father shall give joy in the kingdom of His beloved Son our Lord Jesus Christ, unto whom be praise and glory for ever and ever. Amen.