Paul's entire purpose in life...
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Paul's entire purpose in life was to be filled with Christ, being like Christ as much as possible, communicating with Christ constantly, spreading the Christian Gospel. He was willing to live this faith even though its revelation to others could mean condemnation to death, because he knew the Christ he was serving so faithfully would grant him life eternal. Because of the depth of his faith and his total commitment to Christ, it must have shown outwardly so as to be easily recognizable by others. The story has been told of Mr. A.J. Cassatt, once vice president of the Pennsylvania Railroad, who liked to make quiet tours of the various branches of the system. One time, while doing so, he wandered into an out-of-the-way switchyard. There he came upon one of the yardmen who was doing something Mr. Cassatt thought was not right. He offered a suggestion to the man. But instead of being pleased with the assistance, the man bristled and asked, "Who are you that's trying to teach me my business?" To this Mr. Cassatt replied, "I am an officer of the railroad." The man was suspicious and asked to see Mr. Cassatt's switch key, which every railroader always carried with him. When it was produced, the man believed Mr. Cassatt to be an officer of the road. Christians also carry an identifying key. It is the key of love -- love of Christ, of virtue, and of our fellow man. The hymn states that "they can tell we are Christians by our love." How true! -- Lentz
