The most scary thing about Halloween is to see how Americans celebrate it. Just another excuse to spend disproportionate amounts of dollars -- and do a lot of useless things. But that's only on the surface level.
Truth is there are many horrible things that happen on Halloween. It is, after all, the celebration of the dead, a time to evoke demons, sacrifice life and honor the dark arts as this video clip, Halloween: Innocent Fun or Spiritual Perception, portrays.
No wonder, then, many parents prefer their children dress up in something other than a witch. Or, better still, they prefer the full fun package provided by Harvest Parties. You can read more about Halloween and Harvest Parties in my latest article in The Examiner. Comments welcome.
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.
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.
