Consequences

Ew, what an ugly word. Most people don't really like to think about it for an extended period of time. It's so ugly it's hard to even think of a positive connotation for it. It's defined as "something that logically or naturally follows from an action or condition."

Over 30 years ago, before my parents had any of us kids, they were hit head on by a drunk driver who crossed the center median. My dad broke his leg, my mom broke her back, and the drunk driver walked away injury free. Twenty-three years ago my dad suffered from osteomyelitis, an infection in the place where his femur bone broke years before and had to have surgery in order for the infection to be cleared out of the cavity.

Today, 32 years later, my dad went into surgery for another infection. There are a lot of things about this situation that are unbelievable to me. However, the greatest thing is the forgiveness my parents showed and continue to show towards the driver. For my dad to continue to suffer, 32 years later, from the consequences of this one man's choice, and for him to continue to extend grace and mercy to the man is not a simple thing. In fact, it's impossible by human strength alone. I have great respect for my dad, but I have an even greater respect for my God, who continues to extend His grace and mercy to me when I am so undeserving of it.

Please continue to pray for my dad this week. They may have to go into the area again on Thursday to make sure they didn't miss anything.