When I saw the golden glow of light spilling in through the east windows of the house, I suspected the sunrise might be special.  Still in my pajamas and bathrobe, I threw on an extra pair of heavy socks and old slippers (with a split in the sole) and crossed the creaking boards of the front porch until I could see the southeastern sky.

Yes!  The colors were gorgeous, so I hurried back in the house, hung the camera around my neck, and poked my arms into the sleeves of a winter coat and my feet into my son’s several-sizes-too-big chore boots.  Early morning colors change so rapidly; time and sunrise wait for no woman.

If you drove past my house just before sunrise a few days ago and were startled to see a wild-haired woman, shuffling through the snow, bathrobe flapping under a down coat, I apologize for my appearance.

My predawn dash was motivated by excitement, anticipation, and awe–I didn’t want to miss any of this sunrise, so  I didn’t wait to get cleaned up and dressed.

Neither did the shepherds in the Christmas story.  They didn’t stop to make themselves “presentable.”  They hurried.

As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the sheepherders talked it over. “Let’s get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us.” They left, running, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Seeing was believing.   Luke 2 :15-17  MSG

Don’t wait until you’re “presentable” before you hurry to Jesus.

Run with your broken sole/soul,

wind-blown hair,

mismatched life,

and unwashed heart.

Run to the manger to see what God has revealed.

But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’   Luke 2:10-12   NIV

God has invited you to a Christmas party, and it’s “come as you are.”  Hurry.  You don’t want to miss a thing.

Photos #4 and #6 by Barb Briggs

linked with Jennifer Dukes Lee

linked with Emily Wierenga