A Different Kind Of Halloween

As October rolls around, many of us start thinking about pumpkins, costumes, and candy. Halloween, or All Hallowed’s Eve, is often associated with spooky decor and haunted tales, but as Christians, we have the opportunity to bring light and love into this season.

All Hallowed’s Eve, also known as Halloween, holds a unique place in the Church Liturgical calendar. It falls on the evening of October 31st, just before All Saints’ Day on November 1st. All Saints’ Day is a time to honor and celebrate the lives of saints, both known and unknown, who have exemplified Christian virtues and devotion. All Hallowed’s Eve serves as a vigil, or eve, leading up to this holy day. Traditionally, it was a time for Christians to prepare their hearts and minds to remember the saints and martyrs who had gone before them. This historical connection provides a rich opportunity for us as Christians to embrace the true meaning of hospitality, love, and light during a season often associated with the darker elements of Halloween.

This year, let’s focus on hospitality, kindness, and sharing the love of Christ during Halloween.

1. Transform Your Home with Light:

• “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.” – John 1:5 (NLT)

One way to be hospitable on Halloween is by creating a welcoming atmosphere in your home. Decorate with warm, inviting lights instead of eerie darkness. Show that your home is a safe and friendly place for all who visit.

2. Share Treats and Smiles:

• “Do to others as you would like them to do to you.” – Luke 6:31 (NLT)

Give out treats with love and a smile. Use this opportunity to connect with your neighbors and community. It’s a simple way to show kindness and hospitality.

3. Offer Warm Beverages:

• “And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.” – Matthew 10:42 (NLT)

On a chilly All Hallowed’s Eve, consider offering warm beverages like apple cider or hot chocolate to those passing by. It’s a small act of kindness that can make a big difference.

4. Host a Light-Filled Gathering:

• “For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” – Matthew 18:20 (NLT)

Consider hosting a gathering on Halloween. It could be a small group of friends or neighbors. Share stories, laughter, and good food while focusing on the light and love of Christ rather than the darkness of the day.

5. Pray for Your Community:

• “Pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” – James 5:16 (NLT)

Pray for your community during Halloween. Ask God to bless and protect your neighbors, especially the children. Prayers can be a powerful way to bring Jesus into this season.

6. Avoid Harmful Themes:

As Christians, it’s essential to steer clear of themes and decorations that promote fear, darkness, and the occult. Instead, focus on themes that bring joy, unity, and the message of Christ’s love.

7. Share the Gospel:

• “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 28:19 (NLT)

So, let’s use Halloween as an opportunity to share the good news of the Gospel – to literally be the hands and feet of Jesus. You can include Bible verses in your treat bags or engage in conversations about your faith when appropriate.

Halloween, or All Hallowed’s Eve, doesn’t have to be a time of fear and darkness for Christians. By focusing on hospitality, kindness, and love, we can transform this day into an opportunity to share the light of Christ with our community. Let’s be intentional about bringing Jesus into Halloween and being a beacon of hope in a world that sometimes feels scary.

By focusing on hospitality, kindness, and love, we can transform this day into an opportunity to share the light of Christ with our community.

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