A CHRISTIAN HALLOWEEN

Scripture: You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name (John 15:16 NLT).

This evening will bring dozens of costume-clad trick-or-treaters to our doors with plastic buckets to hold the candy we will hopefully give them. Some people turn off their lights to say “Not welcome.” Others greet their little visitors with spooky adult costumes, dangling spiders, and a frightening “Boo” as they hand out treats and laugh along with their little visitors.

My own solution is to prepare little bags of sweets and enclose a note I’ve prepared on business card stock with a small pumpkin and this message:

“Did you know you and I are like pumpkins? God opens us up and removes all the yucky stuff, like disobedience and selfishness. Then He gives us eyes that see all the wonders around us and a big, big smile. Last of all, he puts the light of love in our hearts so we can shine on everyone around us!”

One year, my dear friend, Debra Westergaard, sent a Facebook post with the same basic message, using different scripture references. It was shared all over the internet! Her post included the amazing truth that God chose us!

Wow! Think of this: We are lost in the “pumpkin patch,” forgotten and subject to decay, but Jesus found us, purposely selected us for His special use, and made something delightful and beautiful of our lives! What a wonderful Savior we have!

Prayer: Thank You so much for choosing us, Lord! Change us from the inside out, give us new eyes and joyful smiles, and let our light shine brightly for You. In Jesus’ name, amen.