“Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand.” (Acts 21: 3)“We sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.” (Acts 27: 4)
St. Barnabas, with John his sister's son,
Set sail for Cyprus; leaving in their wake
That chosen Vessel, who for Jesus' sake
Proclaimed the Gentiles and the Jews at one.
Divided while united, each must run
His mighty course not hell should overtake;
And pressing toward the mark must own the ache
Of love, and sigh for heaven not yet begun.
For saints in life-long exile yearn to touch
Warm human hands, and commune face to face;
But these we know not ever met again:
Yet once St. Paul at distance overmuch
Just sighted Cyprus; and once more in vain
Neared it and passed;--not there his landing-place.
The painting (“The Deliverance of St. Paul and St. Barnabas”) is by French artist Claude-Guy Hallé (1652-1736).
