The phrase “hustle and bustle of Christmas” seems to be more and more true with every passing year. Parties at school and work. Gatherings with family. The hunt for the perfect gifts for kids, friends and teachers. Then trying to fit in quality time with seasonal traditions and new experiences. The holiday season has become another one of life’s marathons.

Working at the Nature Nate’s farm, there’s a still and quiet that gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect on why we truly celebrate Christmas. And in a moment, a favorite verse of the Christmas season comes to heart and mind.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God. Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6. Christmas’s greatest gift is Jesus, and His names in the verse show who He is and who I am not.

Our Wonderful Counselor, He whispers to me. He shows me the way, and I have to walk it. But my sin is constantly exposed, and that’s why we have Jesus – to conquer our sin.

Our Mighty God, His holiness and everlasting love is there for us. Because we are not perfect, and life is not perfect. When we experience its trials and troubles, He is there with us to be our strength.

Our Everlasting Father, we can rest in knowing He has the eternal perspective. In those moments of heart ache, we can trust that He makes the way, and Jesus is the bridge between simple man and Holy God.

Our Prince of Peace, He is always there to calm our hearts. Even in good times when everything seems right, it doesn’t take long for our brokenness to shine through. Despite all our time and effort, we are going to veer off the right path, and He’s there to be our Savior and provide peace.

In the madness of life and the madness that has become Christmas, I’m so thankful that we can set aside the gifts, the food and all the “hustle and bustle” to recognize the true reason for the season. I’m so thankful that we can glorify God through our little honey company. That He has put our people here to love them and provide purpose in their work. And I’m so thankful that through the grace He has extended to us we can live intentionally to serve our customers and in a way that shows the love of Christ.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and hope that you can enjoy its true meaning,

Nathan & Patty Sheets