We know that Peter though he denied Jesus three times and wept bitterly, received grace when forgiven by Jesus and permitted to fulfill his role as an apostle (John 21:15-17).

Peter’s Long Night

“You were of His clan”
Three times the hidden face of shame showed
“I do not know this man”
A cock then crowed
Hasty promises given on Thursday night
Forgotten as fast as in cobbled streets
The flashing of knives and swords
In the dark and gloomy sight
The foul breath of vehement men
Stalking their prey!

The sounds of feet crunch the ground
Past the olive trees - the swish
Of the high priest’s robes
All intent on transgression
To eradicate This Man at any price
The sweating crowds press forward!

All so ceremonial clean
Yet I false to the manipulators
Bled secretly inside myself
Knifed by my denial impotent
Hauling no fish, healing evading
Till the Risen Man,
Questioned – and captured
The haul of me Peter to follow Him!

Beryl McMullen