The Bible verses of Luke 2:10 are part of the story of Christ’s birth in the Gospel of Luke. This year, the phrase that resonated with me is the angel’s imperative: “Do not be afraid.” On a dark, lonely hillside, the angel declared to the shepherds that despite all appearances, there was reason for “great joy” – the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

This past year has brought us many reasons to be afraid. Yet, as we count down the days until Christmas and the end of 2020, there are also many reasons to be filled with gratitude and hope. I’m very thankful to all of you for your perseverance, hard work, patience and grace in facing challenge after challenge, and I am particularly proud of how you served our students this fall semester.

In this last Dean’s Message of 2020, I wish you peace and rest in the days ahead, special times with your families and loved ones and a blessed 2021.

Merry Christmas,

Martijn