[286 words]
Paul was a world traveler. He was a terrific pen pal. He was a teacher. Paul practiced the craft of tent making. He enjoyed reading. He had some health problems. He seemed to enjoy athletics. He was a fund raiser for the hungry of Judah. He had a healing ministry. He worked hard, long hours at preaching the Gospel to the Gentiles. Paul was an accomplished debater. He knew a little about politics and sailing. He was so self-disciplined in body and mind that he could claim contentment in persecution and prison. Paul was well educated, easily handling the subject of philosophy, world religions, and poetry.
Here was a man who had a lot of irons in the fire! Yet, Paul claimed only one goal. “This one thing I do…I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Ph. 3:13-14). Paul’s greatest concern was the saving of his soul. He just wanted to go to heaven! We can see how all of his work and hobbies were directed to apprehending that one great hope.
I know work demands a lot of us these days. It’s important to have an enjoyable and relaxing hobby. Organized recreation programs are good for us and our children and involve some obligation. There are more places to go than ever before. We all have a lot of irons in the fire. Yet, commitment to the one hope of heaven must be supreme. Other things or activities should help us apprehend, not steal us from, the fellowship of God. If you can do only one thing, make that “one thing” you do is to worship and serve the one Lord.
Cecil May III
Parkway Church of Christ
Fulton, KY