What are you doing for Halloween this year? To some Christians, this may seem like a strange question. There are those who find Halloween unconscionable, and will not even eat a candy bar on that particular day. Others prefer to celebrate Reformation Day instead. And do you know what? That is absolutely valid. If you don't celebrate Halloween, fine. If you prefer to celebrate Reformation Day, I honestly don't blame you. If you want to treat Halloween as just a normal day, more power to you. In no uncertain terms, Scripture says you have that right.
But here's the problem with that: Even if you do not celebrate Halloween, October 31st is fast approaching, and many people do. To respond to Halloween, even if your response is avoidance, is to do something on the day of Halloween that you would not normally do. It may not be Halloween to you, but to the culture in which you live, it very likely is.
So what are you going to do? Will you vacate your house and go somewhere quiet? Will you sit in darkness so trick or treaters don't come knocking? Valid options. What you do is entirely between you and God. But if the culture insists on celebrating this season, why not insist on using it for God? Tell me, what greater opportunity is there to share the Gospel when instead of you going out into the world, Satan brings the world to you? Children come demanding treats, which will be eaten in days, maybe less. Why not give them the greatest treat, which will satisfy them forever and beyond; the Bread of Life?
I remember when my new pastor moved in just a few doors down thee street from me. The day after Halloween, we swapped tales. His method was to tell the trick or treaters "we don't really celebrate Halloween, but Jesus is the light of the world, so take this glow stick". Genius! My strategy, though I confess we are not always as organised as I'd like, is to give out tracts with the sweets, usually encouraging children to take them by offering double portions to anyone who does. I am hoping to eventually find a way to attach the tracts to the sweets, so they take them automatically [Update: Party bags].
When it comes to traditions such as the observance of specific days, the Bible clearly tells us we have options. No one can tell you what you must celebrate, and no one can tell you what you may not. It is entirely between you and God. But as long as a season exists, the Church may as well make use of it. Let not one ear miss out on hearing the good news. While the culture celebrates the undead, let us show them the way to eternal life.