One of the toughest tasks a church faces is the wise choice of a wise minister.

A member of the official Board undergoing this painful process finally lost patience. He’d watched the Pulpit Committee reject applicant after applicant for some fault, alleged or otherwise. It was time for a bit of soul-searching on the part of the committee. So he stood up and read a letter purporting to be from another applicant.

“Gentlemen…. Understanding your pulpit is vacant, I should like to apply for the position…. I’ve been a preacher with much success and also had some success as a writer. Some say I’m a good organizer. I’ve been a leader most places I’ve been.

“I am over 50 years of age. I have never preached in one place for more than three years. In some places I have left town after my work has caused riots and disturbances.

‘I must admit I have been in jail three or four times, but not because of any real wrongdoing. My health is not too good though I still get a great deal done.

“The churches I have preached in have been small though located in several large cities. I’ve not got along too well with religious leaders in towns where I have preached. In fact, some have threatened me and even attacked my physical body.

‘I am not too good at keeping records. I have been known to forget whom I have baptized. However, if you can use me, I shall do my best for you.”

The board member looked over the congregation…. “Well, what do you think? Shall we hire him?”

The good church folks were aghast. Hire an unhealthy, trouble-making, absent-minded, ex-jailbird? Was the board member crazy? Who signed that application? Who had such colossal nerve?

The board member eyed them all keenly, saying, “The Apostle Paul.”