Poem July 24, 1948 Issue

"UPON THIS ROCK"

Virginia Schneider

"Before the crowing cock has stilled his voice,
Thou shalt have thrice denied me."
A gentle sadness touched the Master's voice,
But no rebuke.
Impetuous Peter, loud and boldly then:
"Nay, Lord. Dear Lord, thrice over, nay!"

And when the crowing voice broke clear across the dawn,
What of the bitter shame in Peter's heart
When with that sound there came the chilling pain
Of that which was so fearfully done,
The quick, threefold rejection of his Lord?

But not for nought had Jesus called this one "the rock."
No time for vain regret, self-pity, grief!
For this was he who in the time to come
Was soon to say with deep humility
To him who asked alms by the temple gate,
"Such as I have I give to thee,"
And in the loving power of his dear name
The all-triumphant words, "Arise—and walk!"

Virginia Schneider

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