Halloween is a weird holiday, especially in the way our Western Culture handles it.
This Thursday, children in neighborhoods across the country will be prowling the streets soliciting their neighbors–many of whom they never have any contact with–for food. They will knock on the door and when face-to-ghoulish face with the resident, the children will threaten: “Trick…or treat.”
Your move neighbor. Either hand over the sweets or face the wrath of a “trick.” Whether or not any candy is given depends on how intimidating is the costume worn by the youngster. The scarier the get-up, the more likely the child will get his goodies.
It’s mutually agreed-upon extortion!
Being just a few days away, it’s likely that those who are planning on going out to Trick-or-Treat already have costumes lined-up. Should you need a last minute idea, might I suggest what the Apostle Paul commanded of the Ephesian brethren? Dress up like a solider, except this isn’t a pretend costume; this is reality…
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
(Ephesians 6:11-17)
You should be so decked out in your armor that people can spot you from a mile away. They should be able to see the truth you wear like a big rodeo belt buckle. They should the glistening breastplate you wear, representing your righteous state in Jesus Christ.
They ought to hear you coming too, with the marching cadence of feet ready to take the Gospel message out. And should they put up a fight, you won’t be tricking them or egging their houses; you’ll just raise up your shield of faith and absorb all their insults, and answer every challenge with your trusty sword, the Word of God.
Are you suited up? If so then head to the streets and bring the good news of Jesus with you!
~ Matthew