“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.” Colossians 2:15
Halloween.
It’s a time of year when the air gets crisper, the days get shorter, and for many young Americans, the excitement grows in anticipation of shouting, “Trick or Treat?” It’s also a time when there is conflict about what to do about Halloween. Many Christians refuse to participate. Some are wary of its pagan origins; others of its dark, ghoulish imagery. Some are concerned for the safety of their children. All are understandable reasons.
Other folks choose to partake in some of the festivities, whether participating in school activities, neighborhood trick-or-treating, or a Halloween alternative, such as Trunk or Treat at their church or another venue.
But did you know…
The name ‘Halloween’ comes from the All Saints Day celebration of the early Christian church. It was a day set aside for the solemn remembrance of the martyrs. ‘All Hallows Eve,’ the evening before All Saints Day, began the time of remembrance. ‘All Hallows Eve’ was eventually contracted to ‘Hallow-e’en’ which became ‘Halloween.’
The question is, “How should Christians respond to Halloween?
Thankfully, we have the freedom to decide for ourselves.
However you decide “What To Do About Halloween,” remember that Halloween provides the Christian with a chance to interact and build relationships with his/her neighbors. Furthermore, it’s an opportunity to show AND share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The gospel is a message that is holy, set apart from the world; it’s a message that is the very mercy of a forgiving God.
And what better time of the year to share such a message than Halloween?
What do you think?
Written by Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH
DIG DEEPER
Read “Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?” at GotQuestions.org