Dear First Pres,
This Saturday, Halloween, is one of the most controversial days for Christians. Some Christians believe that faithfulness to Christ means that we abstain from any involvement in the day's traditional celebration. Other Christians believe that it's no big deal. I'm not writing this to declare which side of this argument is the most grounded in Scripture, or which side is right. I'm writing to say this: no matter what we believe about Halloween, most of the people who live around us - the people to whom God is sending us as ambassadors of Christ - are going to be celebrating on Saturday night. That means that most of us will have an opportunity to engage with our neighbors, and I encourage you to take advantage of that opportunity.
Last year the Rooney family opened up their garage as a trick or treating rest station. They served hot dogs, met new folks, and had a great time. A family in our old neighborhood in Gig Harbor used to set up their fire pit in the front yard and serve hot cider and hot chocolate. Their house was always a welcome respite for us. Maybe you could do something like that, or maybe you could simply leave your porch light on and make sure you're ready for any who come knocking on your door.
I found a helpful article today. It's written by Pastor Jeff Vanderstelt and it's titled "12 Simple Ways to be on Mission this Halloween." Here is the bullet point version of Jeff's 12 ideas.
Be Hospitable
1. Give out the best Candy: Please, don't give out tracks or toothbrushes or pennies...kids are looking for the master loot of candy. Put yourself in their shoes.
2. Think of the Parents: Consider having some Hot Apple Cider and pumpkin bread or muffins out for the parents who are bringing their little kiddos around the block. Make your entry-way inviting so they want to come closer and hang for a bit if possible.
3. Be Present: Don't hide out all night. Come out to the door or hang out on the porch and if they stop to have some cider, get to know their names and where they live in the neighborhood.
4. Be Encouraging: Tell the kids you love their costumes and to have a great night. Practice building others up with words.
5. Party: If you're really into it, you may want to throw a pre-Trick or Treating party. Provide dinner and drinks. Then, send the dads out trick or treating with the kids while the moms continue hanging with some hot apple cider, coffee or tea. Then reconvene with the parents and kids together to examine all of the loot (kids love to show their parents and other kids the loot).
6. Learn the Stories: If you are out Trick or Treating with the kiddos or staying back with the other parents, ask questions...get to know their stories. Pay attention to their hearts and their felt needs. Look for opportunities to serve them later.
Join What Is Happening Elsewhere
7. Attend the Party: If others are throwing parties, you may want to join them. If so, bring drinks, food or whatever is needed. Then, serve by helping to clean up.
8. Join the Community: If your community has key events, join them and invite some neighbors to go with you (then get to know their stories along the way).
9. Head to the "Watering Holes": If you do not have kids or are not going to engage in the Trick or Treating activities or events, consider going to the local restaurants, pubs or clubs near you for their events and get to know the people there.
Ask for the Spirit to Lead, Guide and Work
10. Pay Attention: Ask the Spirit to open your eyes and ears to the real needs around you.
11. Stay Dependent: Ask the Spirit to help you listen, care and serve those around you.
12. Open Doors: Ask the Spirit for open doors for new relationships and gospel conversations.
That's just one list of 12 ideas, but I hope it helps you think about how you can be on mission this Saturday evening. May the Lord truly empower us to be the light of the world, even in the midst of great darkness.
Blessings,
P.S. Don't forget to look below for details about how you can help out at Martin Park.
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