It is interesting that All Saints day immediately follows Halloween. In recent years I have found myself troubled by how some believers do not act very saintly, (that is graciously), regarding how they respond to the evil side of Halloween. While we avoid almost all of Halloween activities, we still see the “Treating” side of Halloween as a great community outreach to our neighborhood. As the Grandpa and Grandma of our cul-de-sac we see giving out candy to the children who come to our door as expressions of grace.
Recently Drew Dyck of Building Church Leaders.com wrote the following. Please carefully and prayerfully consider his words before you turn on, or off your porch light on Halloween.
“Can you do me a favor? If you plan to hand out evangelistic tracts to kids this Halloween, please give them twice as much candy as the other houses…. I am only half joking. I’ve actually heard of Christians who hand out tracts instead of treats. What a trick! That’s a great way to tarnish the gospel-and make your house a target for eggs. It‘s also a wasted opportunity because Halloween is a great time for outreach. Whether you see the holiday as a sinister tradition, or just harmless fun, we can all agree that reaching our neighbors is important. Plus, how often do the people in our neighborhoods flood the streets and knock on our doors?”
On this October31 and November 1, I urge you to exercise Godly wisdom and discernment. Reject anything that is harmful, while making the most of the opportunities to reach out to those in our own sphere of influence. May you express your Sainthood, as you model grace.
