Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Halloween – to do or not to do, that is the question.

It’s that awkward time of year. Awkward because gazillions of Christians don’t know what to do with this very-Americanized fave holiday – Halloween.

Parents are especially perplexed. Those who know the roots are satanic (and they really are which I’ll tell you about further down) the big dilemma of, “How can we keep our kids from feeling deprived and not honor a satanic ritual?” arises. And for those who don’t have a clue about the meanings behind Halloween’s rituals, simply can’t imagine what all the fuss is about.

Living in France for so many years, I didn’t face this problem. Halloween was no more significant than a spider’s web – excuse the metaphor!

Coming to America, I was stunned. So much money, so much hype and effort and time – for a “satanic” holiday. Then I came to my senses a little and realized that Halloween is a great time to just honor God and do His work, or have harmless fun without magnifying the works of darkness. A lot of churches (at least where I live) have caught on to that. They present Harvest Parties on, or around, October 31st. And they are one heck of a load of fun.

I’ve volunteered to do kids’ games at some of those parties. You get kids turn up as ghosts, witches etc. And you get others turn up as Bible characters. I love all the kids however they look and let them enjoy the game and candy. Sometimes I have an opportunity to share something about Jesus. Either way, the kids are there, at church, not out knocking on doors. So it’s a safe place and a good alternative—and they’re surrounded by good vibes.

If you want to learn of creative, fun ways to teach children during Holiday seasons of any sort, check out my book, Heaven Help Me Raise These Children!—Biblical Direction for Practical Parenting Issues.

Let me also introduce you to two great resources on Halloween. First, check out the DVD by Chuck Smith and Don Stewart at The Word for Today (see sample clip below).



And for some well-balanced tips on how to celebrate Halloween, check out the Precious Holidays blog.

Finally, if you like to dress up at this time of year, or anytime, try a rad temporary hair color (it washes out) and help charities at the same time. Check out Zach’s Wax.

See you again soon. And Happy Harvest.

Janey L. DeMeo M.A.
www.orphansfirst.org
www.Janey.DeMeo.com
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4 comments:

Domenic Marbaniang said...

I'm glad we can use these opportunities to testify of God. I must confess that I still don't know much about this festival.

Janey DeMeo said...

Did you watch the video clip, Domenic? The roots of the holiday are dark -- but most don't understand this. Still it's a great way to redeem the time, and just ride on the back of a holiday to make it something good -- & fun.

blessings,
Janey

Unknown said...

Janey, Greetings in the name of GOD our Father and our Lord Jesus, who is the Christ!!! 1st let me say that I am not looking to contend with you on your article because I believe that all things do work together for good to those that love GOD and are the Called according to His purpose. I just would like for your to consider another dimension of this topic. Please consider this scripture as you address this topic: 1 Cor 5:6 -Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a "little leaven" leaveneth the whole lump(KJV)? I believe Paul was addressing fornication but His point is if you allow a little amongst you, it will affect everyone else. What is the effect of partaking even the slightest bit of this wicked hour? Pray for me as I will also pray for you and all GOD's children. Be encouraged and may GOD grant both you and I the Spirtual wisdom to address this topic in a manner that brings glory to His name!

Janey DeMeo said...

Thanks for your comment RL. Some people feel that their children need to do something fun so they don't feel left out. That's why Harvest Parties hosted by local churches provide such great opportunities. Kids get to play, dress-up, have fun -- & be surrounded by God's people. (Of course, kids from non-Christian backgrounds may come in distasteful outfits . . . ). Why not let your own kids dress up, but as a role-model Bible character or someone heroic? Then they have fun & glorify God. It can be a great time to teach Bible truths also.

Truth is, the origin of the Christmas celebration is completely pagan also. But we've redeemed it and made it about Jesus' birth. Why not do something similar with Halloween? We teach our kids the negative roots, and then turn it into something manifesting God's light. Jesus is stronger than the evil one. It's up to us to lift Him up.

blessings,
Janey