Peter’s Poignant Pose

Source: commons,wikimedia.com
He bowed low in the golden garment
of deep humility
unable to meet his Master’s look.

In the river of the present moment
the three time denial evaporated
in a reiteration of love
flowing back and forth
giving and receiving
the keys of the kingdom.

The rough and tumble fisherman
whose impulsive emotions spelt trouble,
is now Petros, the rock
reverently kissing Jesus’ pierced right hand
ready to be a true disciple.

Clothed in pale blue
signifying the healing power of God,
Jesus charges repentant Peter to
 “Feed my sheep”
gently touching two lambs
looking on in pure white,
all now in perfect harmony.

The aura of the Baroque
emphasizes movement and warm colors
splashed on with bold brush strokes
as three apostles witness
meaningful minutes
enveloped in beauty.

We too are invited
to unite ourselves with Peter,
to be faithful followers
acquiring the art of living life fully,
absorbing the love and healing
offered to us each day,
a happy blend of forgiveness and commission.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Visio Divina of Ruben’s “Christ’s Charge to Peter” (1616)

based on John 21 and Matthew 16:17-19  - The Wallace Collection in London, England.

Viola Athaide, a student of Theology, is actively involved in parish life, leading Bible courses, the Prayer Group, and the Ministry with Maturing Adults.

Print
5 Comments
  • Lalita Figueredo
    Posted at 09:48h, 06 August Reply

    Viola, love the depth of your poetic analysis of Ruben’s ‘Christ’s Charge to Peter’.

  • Maria Skarzynski
    Posted at 10:29h, 06 August Reply

    Beautiful !!

  • Sylvia Lee
    Posted at 10:39h, 07 August Reply

    Thank you for sharing this beautiful poem. Praying for our faithfulness each and everyday.

  • Colleen Digby
    Posted at 09:38h, 11 August Reply

    Viola! So good to see you involved in such a special work. God bless you abundantly. Much Love .

  • Lorella D'Cruz
    Posted at 23:24h, 15 August Reply

    How creatively you express yourself in verse, Viola. Thank you for introducing me to this particular Baroque painting and opening my mind to the messages of love and repentance it conveys.

Post A Reply to Colleen Digby Cancel Reply

Subscribe to igNation

Subscribe to receive our latest articles delivered right to your inbox!