A Tribute to Uncle Eddie

Hebrews 10:38
Now the just shall live by faith . . .

Ephesians 2:8-9
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

His wife called him Edward. Many of his friends called him Ed, but to us he was always Uncle Eddie. He was full of life and I don’t think he ever met a person he didn’t like. He charmed his way into the hearts of young and old alike with a smile, a kind word, a nod and a wink. No, you didn’t have to be around Edward Warner very long to know that he loved people, he loved his country and he loved his God.

Uncle Eddie left us suddenly on the morning of July 15, just a short time after raising the American flag outside his home, as he did every day. He was proud of that flag and the country it represents, and he was proud to have fought for her freedoms.

A few months ago, Uncle Eddie told a young friend that he felt this was the year he was going to die, and he asked her to say a few words at his funeral. He selected the music to be played and sung, the scriptures to be read, and he even gave the minister the topic for the message. He wanted everyone present at his service to hear the message he firmly believed—that salvation is a free gift that comes by placing your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. It can’t be bought. It can’t be earned. No amount of good works can pay for it. And it’s offered to everyone.

When Ed Warner stepped out of this life onto the shores of Heaven, he left behind a legacy of goodness, the flag of his country flying high, and the message of salvation to be proclaimed. Last week we paused to reflect on his life and to say farewell to Edward P. Warner. Joy mingled with sorrow as we celebrated a life well lived, a man well loved, and a God well glorified. Uncle Eddie, we salute you.

By Ann Shorb
©Copyright Ann Shorb, 2006

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Related articles and devotionals:
Lessons I Learned from My Dad
Closer Than a Brother
God's Requirements

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