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Halloween ~ What's a Christian to do?
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Every October, Christian parents are faced with the dilemma of whether or not to celebrate Halloween. Pressure from the world says, "lighten up, don't spoil the kids fun, after all it's all about the candy." Yet how would Jesus feel in response to seeing our children dressed up as monsters, goblins, witches and idols of every sort carrying on an age-old pagan festival?
That's a hard one to answer as none of us can speak for God, but if Jesus came back on Halloween night I wouldn't want to have to explain to the King of Kings why one of His sheep was dressed as something from the enemy's team.
As a little girl, our family didn't think twice about it, but we weren't a Bible believing Christian household either. Our entire neighborhood buzzed with excitement, there was much giggling and feigned surprise as neighbors opened their doors to wee costumed characters, not to mention keeping the dentist in business filling those after Halloween, candy apple cavities.
If we participate in this pagan celebration, it doesn't mean we will loose our salvation, but it does shed light on how easily our hearts are swayed by the allure of the world. Jesus reminds us that if we are faithful in small things, we will be faithful in the big things. And though Halloween is probably one of the smaller things, how we approach it is a testimony to where our allegiance lies.
It's not that Christians can't celebrate and have fun, are you kidding??? Because of salvation through Christ and what He has done for us, we should be throwing the biggest celebrations of all. Jesus rules and good wins over evil…plus God loves festivals that honor Him and tell of His great deeds.
So rather then following the world, sending our youth off into the night alone to become subject to fear of many kinds, replace this worldly festival with your own family celebration that honors our amazing God. There's many alternatives...such as fall festivals, trunk or treats or a family night.
Gather your loved ones together, enjoy a meal and conversation about the events of the day, share stories the family has passed down from one generation to the next and weave in God's attributes. Mention where you noticed God working in their hearts, your life or the lives of others that day. Share a Bible story or passage, then talk about it. After the discussion, pop some popcorn, play some family games, sing some songs, even if they sound really bad so you'll have more stories to tell when the kids are grown up with families of their own. Then before you head off to dream, join together in prayer. Something amazing happens when families gather and lift their concerns to the God of the universe. He listens and honors the way we put Him first in our lives.
Change October 31st to Hallowed be thy Name night while teaching children about a God who loves them so dearly He gave His very life for their salvation. Actually, don't wait for a special day, do this every night and your family will blossom and grow closer in ways you never dreamed possible. Absolutely no trick, simply blessings and treats are rewards for the faithful children of the King!
Oh yeah, if the doorbell rings, you can still pass out some candy, but mention the celebration you're having inside…honoring Jesus! They might just want to join in!
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-His good pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
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