Tag: Halloween

October 31, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Light in the Darkness: A Halloween Reflection

Opening Verse

“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.”
— Matthew 5:14 (KJV)

Introduction

As Halloween approaches and houses fill with carved pumpkins and glowing jack-o’-lanterns, we have a unique opportunity to reflect on being lights in a world that sometimes feels dark. Just as a jack-o’-lantern shines in the night, we too are called to let our light shine for God.

Devotional Story

A young man named Caleb was out on Halloween night with his friends. They had carved pumpkins earlier, making funny faces on some and scary ones on others. As the evening went on, they set the jack-o’-lanterns out with candles inside, watching as they glowed brightly in the night.

While gazing at the soft glow, Caleb felt reminded of something his grandmother used to say: “Jesus is the light that shines in us so others can see the way.” He thought about how the world could feel like a dark night sometimes, filled with things that frighten or worry us. But Jesus, the true Light, shines through believers, giving them hope and peace.

Caleb knew then that he wanted to live so that others would see God’s light in him, just like those candles shining through the pumpkins. He gathered his friends and shared his thoughts, encouraging them to let God shine through their lives, even when things got tough or scary.

What This Means

As jack-o’-lanterns brighten up Halloween night, we’re reminded that Jesus is the light within us. When we allow Him to shine through us, we bring hope and warmth to those around us, illuminating paths in a world that often feels dim. Just as the carved faces in pumpkins are meaningless without a candle inside, our lives are most meaningful when they reflect the light of Christ.

Think About This

Are you letting God’s light shine through you? When others see you, do they see the hope, peace, and joy that comes from knowing Jesus?

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for being the light in our lives. Help me to shine brightly for You, especially when things around me seem dark or challenging. Let my actions, words, and heart reflect Your love and light so others may find hope in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
— Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

October 12, 2023 Christian Perspective Post a Comment

Shining Light on Halloween: A Christian Perspective

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

Introduction

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, Halloween is a celebration that looms large on the calendar. While it may evoke thoughts of candy and costumes for some, for many Christians it triggers a reflex to denounce the holiday as demonic or evil. In the midst of this quick judgement, we may be overlooking an opportune moment to shine our light in the darkness and serve God.

Christian Perspective

Imagine a devout Christian family that has always avoided Halloween, cautioning their children and friends about the day’s supposed evil origins. They are quick to label it as demonic, recalling verses about avoiding the appearance of evil.
“Abstain from all appearance of evil.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:22 (KJV)
One year, however, they decide to approach it differently. Instead of closing their doors and shunning the celebration, they opt to be a light in the darkness. They dress up as their favorite Biblical characters, not to join in the revelry, but to ignite meaningful conversations. They also prepare goodie bags, but these are no ordinary treats. Inside each bag, along with candy, is a small Bible verse or a spiritual message. As they distribute the bags, the conversations that ensue are enlightening. Children ask about their costumes, leading to stories from the Bible. Parents engage in dialogue about the true meaning of good and evil, light and darkness.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

Conclusion

Being a Christian does not mean we avoid places or situations that are perceived as dark or evil. On the contrary, it’s about being the light that dispels the darkness. Jesus himself set this example when he went to the woman at the well, a place and situation where many would not expect to find a prophet.
“Then the woman of Samaria said unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.” – John 4:9 (KJV)

Faith Notes

Before we rush to label Halloween as a holiday contrary to Christian values, let’s pause and remember the model Jesus set for us: one of inclusion, love, and engagement. Much like how Jesus interacted with those society marginalized, Halloween offers an opportunity to connect with neighbors and community members in a unique way. Matthew 6:9 advises us:
“After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.”
The call to hallow God’s name is a call to recognize and glorify His divine nature in all circumstances—even during Halloween.
“Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21 (KJV)
Let us seize occasions like Halloween to let our light shine even brighter, reaching out to our communities in acts of kindness, love, and understanding. Engage in meaningful dialogue, perhaps even turn the night into an outreach opportunity. Our methods may be unconventional, but their impact can be eternally significant.
“The light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.” John 1:5 (KJV)
In a world that often seems engulfed in darkness, remember that light is the most effective tool for dispelling it. May we use Halloween as an occasion to bring that divine light into our communities, always honoring the principle of “Hallowed be thy name.”