Nothing Compares.

I intended to share these thoughts last week; my time to do so slipped by faster than I could get to a computer. That just means a bigger entry this time around :)

I recently heard a song by third day, entiled Nothing Compares. As I listened, I was once again struck with the realization that their is not one thing which compares to the greatness of knowing and having a relationship with the Lover of our souls. God sent his one and only son, extending a free gift of grace and forgivness, through his death and ressurection, in order that we could live freely and with great joy. What compares to that? Waking up daily to that truth inspires me to finish strong with the mission I have been called to this summer in Cortez.

Personally, I believe there are a few other things in my life of which nothing compares.

Nothing compares to being an American woman, free to dance to the beat of her own goals and aspirations.

Nothing compares to having a full belly 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Nothing compares to having a roof over my head and a warm bed to rest in each evening.

Nothing compares to having an education; not only a high school diploma, but a higher ed. degree.

The one's to follow may be a little biased but...:)

Nothing compares to having the most supportive, loving, family a girl could ask for.

Nothing compares to having a father who is faithful to his wife and five children.

Nothing compares to having a stepmom who has more than adopted me as one of her own.

Nothing compares to having incredible grandparents full of wisdom and love.

Nothing compares to having aunts and uncles who encourage and affirm...

and ultimately, nothing compares to the relationship I have with God in heaven. He is my stronghold and advocate, to whom I confide and who is faithful in providing a portion that is adequate each and every day.

thankful!

Anna

Ultimate Week

This week has been wonderful in a large variety of ways. We hosted our largest group of the summer. 65 of us served along side one another and I can confidently say that each and every one of them poured out a special blessing on this quaint town of Cortez, CO. They were servant minded and joy filled, leaving all of us on staff refreshed and excited to finish off the summer.
In addition to having five incredible youth groups join us for a week of service, we have had ten fellow YW staffers join us this weekend. What a refreshment that has been! Joining in fellowship with all these amazing people has lifted by spirits immensely. Their presence alone has brought great joy to my weekend. Yesterday, we shared all the stories that accumulate during a summer of service and today we have enjoyed a movie, tour of Mesa Verde, and for myself, a long chunk of time resting in a beautiful park under a large tree. We finished off this afternoon with some incredible rounds of ultimate Frisbee and a victory dance in the sprinklers, only to later be fed a delicious meal of chicken fajitas :)

I hope that this short and sweet update finds you all doing well , and that you can see a smile shining through the words which I have written.