The name of Paul Rader is known and loved by many who still honor him for his earnest Christian walk. In his pathway of loving service to his Savior he encountered needy men in all walks of life and his ear seemed ever attuned to hear the Lord's "this do" or "go ye" in behalf of lost souls.
One man, a New York banker, was often on Paul's heart. Many a soul-searching talk did they have together; but always the banker would conclude: "Yes, Paul, I know you are right. But I am too busy for religion.”
Perhaps he was "too busy for religion," but not too busy for God who makes man's busy doings to accomplish His own purposes. In the midst of his busy strivings for place and power, the overworked body of the banker collapsed and he was sent to a quiet sanitarium for a complete rest.
One day Paul Rader received a message. He knew it was from God for the word was distinct and clear: "Go, speak to the banker.”
Rader caught a train and went with all speed to see his friend. As he approached the sanitarium he saw the banker standing in the doorway. "Oh, Paul," he called, "I am so glad you are here.”
"I received your telegram," Paul answered with a smile.
"No," said the banker; "that is impossible. I wrote one begging you to come, but I tore it up. I did not send it!”
"That may be so," said Mr. Rader; "but your message came by way of heaven.”
Paul Rader found his banker-friend under deep conviction of sin. How happy he was to point him to Christ as the perfect Savior! That man accepted the Lord Jesus, and his heart overflowed with joy. "Rader," he said, "did you ever see the sky so blue or the grass so green?”
"Ah," said Rader, "to you all things have become new. We sometimes sing:
" 'Heaven above is softer blue,
Earth around is sweeter green;
Something lives in every hue
Christless eyes have never seen.'”
Suddenly the banker leaned against Rader, and fell into his arms dead.