As Christians, we have to decide what to do with Halloween. Do we ignore it, participate with our neighbors, do our own thing, go to a church harvest party, or what? Is it better to engage the culture, have a voice in the festivities or retreat?

To decide, research the roots of Halloween in order to understand what the holiday is about- this is how you inform yourself with facts. I was surprised to learn that Halloween had Celtic origins related to sacrifices made to summer gods in Druidic tradition.

Then, pay attention to what you believe the Lord is telling you to do, and talk as a family. Pray for wisdom and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, not other people. When you decide what to do,  help your children understand the position you take and why.

Other people should respect your decision, especially if you have had any personal encounters with the dark side of the spirit world in your family or through the generations. And if your decision is simply based on the idea that you don’t like what Halloween stands for and do not want to participate, you don’t need the approval of others.

My caution is not to judge others. Many use this holiday to engage their neighbors and have conversations about spiritual things. Others feel, they can dress up and had out candy because as Christians, there is nothing to fear. Still others see this as an opportunity to talk about the spiritual world, a chance for cultural engagement.

One of the best things that comes out of deciding what to do with Halloween is that it awakens us to the reality that evil exists and isn’t some Hollywood fantasy.

So no matter what you decide, know this. Jesus overcame all evil so we don’t have to fear. He overcame the darkness (1 John 4:4) and triumphed over death and evil. And every day His overcoming power works in us when we are one of His.

Assure  your children that no matter what they encounter, they are covered by the precious blood of Christ (not scary, but comforting) and greater is He that is in us, then he that is in the world.