THIS IS THE DAY the Lord Has Made! Let’s LIGHT It Up!
Indeed, “This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad for it!” (Psalm 118:24) This day was created by God from the very beginning for His will and good pleasure. It’s a day of great joy to be alive and to celebrate His goodness and mercy that endures forever. I raise His banner of love high on this 31st day of October and I sing out His praises for His greatness and unfathomable love.
I said all that to urge us to light up this day with the Light of Christ. I’ll admit that talking, walking and living in the Light is my number one priority. I’ve seen lots of photos, on my FB newsfeed, of cute little kiddos being introduced to their first Trick or Treat experience, as well as photos of some quite spooky, blood-curdling Halloween costumes donned by fun-loving grown-ups. I know it’s all about the fun of sporting those costumes and acting out their characters…..BUT!
Not to take away any fun from anyone, but the older I get, and the closer and more intimate and familiar I’ve become with THE LIGHT, the more I shun darkness and evil on TV, in books and movies, the sweeter and more peaceful my journey has become. How precious that is to me. I steer clear of darkness with intentional determination– and I’m consistently drawn to THE LIGHT. So in writing this post, it’s not to judge anyone’s personal convictions, but I really desire to share why I am wrapped up in THE LIGHT.
When I was a child, Halloween was one of the two days a year that we hauled in lots of candy (Easter, being the other). I would usually dress up in some homemade costume — like a hobo or my pj’s. Yes, I went trick or treating as a child and yes, I turned out alright. However, our world around us has changed so much since my childhood.
Over the years I’ve become more aware of the origins of Halloween and have become more troubled in my heart about this “fun” day. So much so, that I steer clear of Halloween festivities that celebrate this day. I’m posting this because I’m compelled by the LIGHT that has transformed my life, so much so that I truly determine to be God’s fully devoted follower in every way. I’m simply sharing these words for you to ponder, consider and seek God’s wisdom as you celebrate this day with your sweet, innocent and precious family.
Whether you celebrate this day with your family as a Fall Harvest or go door to door trick or treating, ask God to show you His LIGHT on the subject. We all want our families to have the best, most blessed options….every day. May we humbly ask God for His wisdom and then allow the Holy Spirit to guide us. There is darkness all around us and it’s up to us to make God (The Light) famous. It may be a good idea to have a discussion with our family about the origins of tricks, treats, witches and jack-o-lanterns AND then focus on the abundant life and LIGHT of our Savior! If you’re celebrating today, know what you’re celebrating……celebrate LIFE and the LIGHT! “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.” Philippians 4:8