If you’ve looked around lately, you know the world feels a little upside down. There’s plenty of noise, uncertainty, and stress pulling at all of us. It’s easy to feel worn out especially during a season that’s supposed to be joyful.

But Christmas tells a different story. Over 2,000 years ago, peace didn’t arrive through power or politics… it came quietly, in a manger. Isaiah called Him the Prince of Peace, and Jesus Himself said in Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” That’s not just a nice thought it’s an invitation.

The angels announced it that night in Bethlehem: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests” (Luke 2:14). That peace is still available today. It’s not found in perfect circumstances or a stress-free calendar, it’s found in Him.

I’ve been thinking a lot about peace this year. It’s easy to confuse peace with comfort or control, but real peace isn’t about everything going right. Peace is about knowing Who holds everything together when it doesn’t. It’s the quiet confidence that even in chaos, God is near and His promises are true. That kind of peace changes how we live, how we lead, and how we love.

So this Christmas, I want to encourage you to take a breath. Slow down. Let go of the weight you’ve been carrying and accept the gift Jesus offers. His peace isn’t fragile - it’s strong enough to steady your heart, calm your fears, and give you hope no matter what’s going on around you.

From all of us at Contract Lumber, thank you for being part of our story this year. We’re grateful for you and wish you a Christmas filled with His peace and a New Year full of hope.

Merry Christmas,

Jim Bieser