A simplicity

After Acts 28:11-31

Beatings, yes, threats

of death, persecutions,

stoning, imprisonments,

ridicule, shipwreck,

these I endured with

his grace and provision.

But when I saw them

at the Forum of Appius, by

the Three Taverns, when

I saw these come from Rome,

arms opened, my heart

overflowed, my tears

overwhelmed my eyes, and

I thanked him for this,

a simplicity of courage,

a simplicity of encouragement.

Photograph: Forum of Appius today, Via Appia, near Rome.