The Chains of Saint Peter

How blessed is the force of prayer: 
Eager for Peter's fate, 
Thy soldiers, Herod, bound him fast, 
And watch'd before the gate.

But Jesus has His soldiers, too;
They also vigils keep;
They watch to prayer, while Peter rests
In faith composed in sleep.

And Jesus other soldiers has;
Responsive to the call
Of prayer His holy angels come,
Sent by the Lord of all.

Prayer brought an angel down from heaven;
Sentries and bars are vain;
With heavenly light the prison shines,
Unlocked is Peter's chain.