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!
