If Not

 When I see the morning headlines Injustice in the news When violence, fear and hatred From mortal wounds now ooze May the posture of my heart show: Blood has been on my hands too  I have hated, I've neglected But the cross has made me new If grace and mercy have found me If my debt has been removed  Can they see that when I listen? Do they know I've been with you? Is it obvious that I am dependent  On your mercy all day long? Am I able to admit sometimes I may have got it wrong? Am I willing to pray "search me God" and "know my anxious thoughts?" Can I humbly admit at times I think more highly of self than I ought? Is my knee-jerk response simply a defense of my party, religion or race Or do my words, my thoughts, and actions  Exalt Jesus and His grace? And with that Grace, He's full of truth His word alone my guide (God show me where I misuse these words to cover up my pride) Does the placard of my heart say  "saved alone by grace" Am I quick...

  Dear Family and Friends,   I have a feeling that so many Christmas letters will sound the same for the year 2020 . . . cancelled travel plans, school changes, economic strain, heartfelt burden for our world, and so many unknowns.   In addition to world events, 2020 was a busy one for the Thompsons. Esther turned 3 in February and we enjoy watching her grow up. She has a wonderful imagination, precious love for Jesus, and a great sense of humor. Streator loves playing with her and we like to call him “our little beacon of joy and destruction.” He is such a fun guy but he almost gives mommy a heart attack every day with his crazy climbing abilities.        In March, we were expecting orders from the Army for Fort Leonard Wood, MO, so we bought a van and a house sight-unseen. To say this was stressful would be an understatement. We made the decision to go under contract within a week of President Trump’s initial stay at home order.    Thr...