HALLOWEEN SAFETY

Another Halloween has come and gone. Yet, it never ceases to surprise me how much my brothers and sisters in Christ oppose it. I remember as a child the neighbors across the street would lock their front door, turn off the porch light, and leave a sign on the front door saying something to the effect of, “We’re Christians. We don’t celebrate Halloween, because it’s evil.”

They could not have been more wrong in their beliefs and their approach. Many Christians hide themselves away like a magic portal opens allowing Satan to walk the Earth once a year and somehow refusing candy to the happy, enthusiastic children will accomplish something. They’re wrong.

In reference to the evil that prevails in the world, I assure you no more of it prevails on October 31st than it does on June 12th. The only difference is the volume. Halloween is a perfect opportunity to be loud and proud about heathenish behavior. Satan and his demons walk the Earth everyday, no more or less than Halloween night.

Sure, Halloween has been culturally twisted into a night devoted to terror, but Christians need to focus past all that on what is truly terrifying. An eternity out of God’s presence. A lifetime without His purpose and failing our Great Commission. That is what terrifies me. Instead of hiding away, approach Halloween as an opportunity to share the Gospel.

Here is a list of ways to celebrate Halloween without disgracing God and your neighbors.

1 . Be attentive. You’re more likely to encounter a drunk driver or group of vandals than a witch. Always be sure they follow the simple safety rules. Wear light colors, carry a flashlight, make sure the children are chaperoned, etc.

2 . Show compassion . You catch more flies with honey than vinegar. Keep your heart, mind, and door open. You never know who will come to your door in dire need of a compassionate ear. It is your Christian duty to listen.

3 . Limit participation . Don’t confuse some innocent trick-or-treating as equally sinful as a drunken party. You can set an example by abstaining from the sinful behavior while engaging in the innocent practices.

Whatever you chose to do, do it for the glory of God and our calling. Be kind, loving, and open-minded. People will be more receptive to your message if you’re not pointing fingers and spitting in their faces.