+ The Good Life: -Home Life

On Earth as it is in Heaven

This past week in Worship we continued the theme, The Triumph of Grace: Awakening the Spiritual Imagination through the Visions of Revelation. You are invited to watch the service online, worship in song, and reflect on Revelation 4, where John invites us to look through a door standing open in heaven where he presents the breathtaking throne of God surrounded by worship.

Our message last week was titled On Earth as it is in Heaven. This is stunning text that draws our attention to a deeper reality than our unique mission or anything we do for God. This text directs our attention and affection to the One who sits on the throne now and always. It invites us to center our very identity on God.

This Sunday, we continue our series through the Visions of Revelation, with chapter 5, and a message titled: “Is Anyone Worthy?” In this text we will be introduced to the Lamb who appears as slain, standing at the center of the throne. This is one of the most powerful images in all of Scripture.

In anticipation, for Sunday take a moment to reflect on the Albrecht Dürer engraving inspired by Revelation, Chapter 5. In this image Dürer depicts a heavenly moment, where the Lion is revealed as the Lamb, and heaven erupts in even greater worship. Let’s continue to let these images stir our imagination and awaken spiritual devotion as we continue our Lenten Journey.

Posted at 03:27 PM in -Home Life, -Church Life, -Prayers | Permalink

Reflections on a Year of Blessings and a Christmas Greeting

As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on a year filled with meaningful experiences and heartfelt connections. From exploring fascinating destinations to cherishing time with family and friends, we are profoundly grateful. At the same time, we mourn meaningful losses and have endured our share of ailments. Through it all, we are grateful for many mercies that are new every morning.

This year’s travels have taken us to remarkable destinations, including Anchorage, Bali, Bangkok, all around California, Fairbanks, the Florida Keys, Honolulu, Seattle, Singapore, Spokane, and Washington, DC. Along the way, we’ve had the joy of visiting dear family, connecting with old friends, and making new ones. No matter where our journeys take us, we are always thankful to return home to Santa Barbara—a community that inspires us with its creativity and draws remarkable thinkers, entertainers, and artists who make it truly special.

I recently began my fifth year in the administration at Westmont College, a role I continue to find rewarding. In May, I was also honored to step into the pastoral ministry at the Presbyterian Church in Summerland, a delightful community of thoughtful and caring Christians in a seaside hamlet just moments from the college.

Cindy actively serves the church, P.E.O., and Master Gardeners and works on various other projects. Her favorite project is, by far, caring for our grandchildren. It’s pure joy!

As I reflected on all the doors that opened to us this past year, I created a Davis Family Christmas Video with a fun 1960s “Get Smart” vibe. Back in the ‘60s, many prayed for wisdom about resolving the conflict in Vietnam and reversing the nuclear arms race. Now, the world faces even more existential challenges. We join with all those of goodwill who seek wisdom, peace, and love. We are profoundly thankful for Jesus, our Savior, who lights the way.

Wishing you a blessed Christmas!

Posted at 08:17 PM in -Home Life, -Church Life, -Reflections on Faith | Permalink

Santa Barbara Christmas 2023

Merry Christmas

Wishing you a joyous and heartwarming Christmas season filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with your loved ones. As another year comes to a close, we wanted to share some highlights from our family's journey in 2023.

Cindy is now in her second year as a success coach at Westmont, and she continues to make a positive impact on the lives of students. She continues her service to the community as a master gardener and tends to her very own rose garden section at the Santa Barbara Mission. She also participates in a monthly book club, a PEO group, and leads a Bible study.

I’m now in my fourth year leading the Gift Planning Office at Westmont College. Alongside this, I occasionally have the privilege of preaching, offering consulting services, and remaining active in Rotary. Together, Cindy and I lead a group of students at Westmont in a weekly Capax Dei group.

In the spring, we embarked on an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica. We explored the volcano region, ventured into lush rainforests, and relaxed on beautiful beaches, creating lasting memories. Summer took us to Ecuador, where we embarked on an incredible journey. We delved into the heart of the Amazon, marveled at the unique wildlife in the Galapagos Islands, and made a quick stop in Panama. The beauty and diversity of these destinations left a profound impact on us.

We both find immense joy in spending time with our grandkids, watching them grow and discover the world. Their laughter and creativity is such a joy. As we embrace the spirit of Christmas, we are filled with gratitude for the love and blessings that surround us.

May your holiday season be filled with warmth, and may the coming year bring you peace, good health, and countless moments of happiness.