TGIF: A Renewed Tradition on Halloween

Moving to the Midwest over four years ago, has been one of the most rewarding decisions in our married life. The culture of family, friends, and community has blessed us so much. There are few things I miss, besides friends and family...and food, from our native Texas residence, but something I am always reminiscent about this time of year, is the concept of Fall Festivals. Yes, the Midwest celebrates harvest with pumpkin patches and hay rides, but Texas used Fall Festivals as a great Halloween alternative. They took place in churches with a consistent requirement of God-honoring fun and fellowship, without the Halloween focus. Around here, Halloween is alive and well, even my son's youth group postponed a field trip so that the kids could participate in "Beggar's night, aka trick or treating".

So, just because my church doesn't host a fall festival, doesn't mean we can't re-instate the concept in the warmth of our home! This last day of October, we're going to have a fun Fall celebration in a glowing house promising treats for the little "beggars" who will knock on the door, and delicious sweets, snacks, and entertainment for the kids inside! My kids always love a party, and having another family join us will make the celebration of God's harvest season all the more exciting!

How about you? As a Christian, has Halloween been an issue of conflict in your heart and family? I have wrestled with my opinion for about sixteen years now. This year, I was convicted to write a parable about what I think, and would love to share it with those who have similar struggles with this holiday as me. Send me a message if you'd like to read it: ad5000cd (at) yahoo dot com. (You might also like to read Wednesday's post on conviction vs. love, so you understand why I didn't post it on my blog.)