The Birth of Sage Elizabeth

I have wrestled for a while as to what the purpose and reason would be for starting a blog. This is because I am just an ordinary person who has a minimal platform, yet I desire to take each moment captive and be a set apart disciple of Jesus Christ. As I have slowly explored the idea of creating this blog I recognized that the number one thing holding me back was myself. I genuinely believed that I wasn’t good enough, popular enough, or liked enough for people to take time to read these words. The more that I marinated over these thoughts the more I realized that I am not writing or living for man and the approval of this world but rather to wholeheartedly proclaim and represent Jesus in every facet of this life. Although I fail at this every day, I still desire to be vulnerable, real, and authentic with the words I share and the way that I live. Therefore, this blog is simply a platform for me to give a little snap shot of the wild and real moments that Benji and I face as we faithfully take one step at a time on this journey called Life.

Recently, Ben and I moved to California for the summer to work and serve at JH Ranch. We took 5 days to drive from Lynchburg, VA to Etna, CA in order to have freedom and flexibility to travel and explore while being on the west coast. The most popular conversation that I have had since we did this road trip has been trying to accurately describe what it is like to drive 43 hours in 5 days. The truth is that there were lots of challenging moments where we were tired, bored, burnt out but ultimately had to keep driving. Through these different experiences and circumstances, I gained a new perspective and appreciation for those who live life on the road. I have seen the value in stability and consistent community and how fruitful it is to be able to keep going even when I don’t feel like it. Along this journey, I learned so much about patience and grace. I recognized how easy it is to be numb and disengaged while doing the same thing each day. Throughout the 5 days, my favorite part was getting to spend the night in a different city with various mutual friends. Looking back on the drive, those were some of the most fruitful experiences because it gave us an opportunity to branch out and meet new people as well as see the local side of different cities. Through driving across the country, I gained memories that will last a lifetime and I am simply grateful for the opportunity to see so many different states such as Kansas, Colorado, Utah, and California.

Since being in California, we have only had about 5 days on the job and it has been so sweet. Benji and I are serving in the kitchen alongside so many incredible volunteers. Each day I have learned so much about perseverance, positivity, and grace. I have seen the value and benefit of working hard and I have tasted the freedom that comes from breaking out of comfort zones. I am excited and expectant of the precious relationships that will be gained from being in this special place.

It is my hope and prayer that whoever might stumble across this blog to read about our story might be encouraged along their own journey. Feel free to reach out at anytime. I would enjoy listening to your thoughts and would be honored to hear from you.

With love,

Morgan Thurmond Montgomery