What Could Have Been

I am writing these words with a heavy heart. For days, even weeks now, I have been burdened to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and write about the cost, and the consequences of sin.

I didn't think it would be today, and I didn't think I would be opening the subject in this way but ... I received news this morning of the death of someone I dearly love. My uncle Danny.

My uncle Danny was so handsome. He looked a lot like Elvis, but in Elvis' good-looking days. : )

My uncle Danny was so funny. He had an infectious laugh, and an irresistible personality.

My uncle Danny was so smart. Next to my daddy, my uncle Danny was the smartest man in the world!

My uncle Danny had a passion for life. Even a simple dinner was a celebration for my uncle Danny. How I miss the way he would make "ummm, ummmm good" sounds at our dinner table.

And my uncle Danny always had time for me. One on one time. Like a game of chess, or a knock-knock joke marathon.

That's how I remember my uncle Danny. Sweet memories of my favorite uncle. A man who had everything. Unfortunately, those memories are from many, many years ago.

Childhood memories of before ....

Before what?

Before the decision he made which altered his life forever. The sin that stole his future.

Today, I am grieving the loss of my uncle Danny. But more than that, today the scab has been ripped off the wounds from many years ago. The wounds of the cost and consequences of sin. The deepest wound .... of what could have been.

My uncle Danny's sin did not cost him his life but it was costly ...

A bullet to the head cost him his brilliant mind, his infectious personality, and his striking good looks. After he recovered from the head injury, he spent many years in prison paying for his crime.

Even as I write these words, I am second guessing my decision to put these words in print. But I know this ... my uncle Danny, the one I remember from my childhood, would want you to know SIN IS COSTLY!!!!

The Bible says sin is fun for a season. But .... at the end of the season you (and those who love you) WILL pay the cost.