The Welcoming Holiday

October 31, 2022

There was a time when I did not care for Halloween. Oh, it wasn’t when I was a young child. Then it was great fun to dress up in a costume and go door to door. We would receive candy or fruit or cookies at each house, where the residents would compliment us on our wonderful disguises. We were amazed at the volume of sweets we received.

As an adult I heard of evil associated with the holiday. There were instances when razor blades were found in apples, poison in candy, and of times when eggs were thrown at cars and windows. I heard that in ancient times All Hallows’ Eve was a pagan religious holiday that worshiped evil spirits. It became easier to not celebrate Halloween.

Gradually, though, people became convinced that Halloween could be a Christian witness. The holiday could be redeemed. As the saying goes, “Don’t throw out the baby with the bath water.” The symbols that referred to the evil side of the holiday’s past weren’t needed, such as witches, black cats, and ghosts. The good side that included generosity and welcoming strangers could be the theme. Churches started offering “fall festival” or “trunk or treat.” We gave pencils or little toys with a Christian message, along with candy. We lovingly smiled at each child and complimented each costume. We welcomed each guest.

Kids can sense where there is love.

I understand why some don’t celebrate Halloween. It’s okay, I honor your misgivings. Don’t feel like you have to hide or leave your home for the night. Just turn off your porch light, and everyone will understand that you’re not joining in the tradition this year.

I believe in redemption. Jesus said about himself in Luke 19:10, “For the son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”