With ripe conviction Peter wrote to those
Waiting in Asia Minor for some word
That would bring courage to their fainting hearts
And cause the fires of holy zeal to burn
With glowing warmth
Within their little band.
Peter had been with him;
Had seen great wonders,
Traveled the same paths
Along whose rugged way
The Master walked.
Peter, they knew, had watched the eager throngs
Laying their dear ones at the Master's feet;
Had seen them healed, restored to radiant health.
Peter had talked with Jesus
As he sat beside the sea
Explaining his great work
And ministry;
Peter, as they themselves, had paused to doubt;
Had even sworn that he had never been
One of the twelve. That was before
The light of resurrection dawned on him
And sent its golden, purifying ray
Into his humble and repentant heart.
From that time forth Peter stood stanch and true,
Fearless and full of fervent, eager zeal.
