"In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it." (John 1.4-5) At this time of the year we cannot escape exhibitions of skeletons, ghosts and images of death and darkness that are all around us. Pagan superstition is still alive, and Halloween is one of the fastest growing festivals in the world. It is a coping mechanism to deal with the fear of death which is a strategy of the devil to keep people in bondage. The pagan and the non-believer often associate death with the devil, demons, ghosts, darkness and fear. This is totally opposite to the Christian believer's view of death because he lives in the light of the fact that Jesus abolished death, destroyed the devil’s power over death and liberated him from the bondage of the fear of death. "The appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel."(2 Tim.1.10)
In the Kingdom of Light - over which Jesus, The Light Of The World reigns - fear of death is replaced with joyful expectation of New Life. The believer no longer fears death. Jesus' resurrection has made it a DOOR OF HOPE - a gateway to Heaven and a promotion into a realm of living more wonderful than anything previously experienced. This expectation is not simply a mere wish but is guaranteed by God Himself who said: "I am the resurrection and the life he who believes in me will never die." (John 11.25-26)
The 31st of October, named "All Souls Day" on the Christian calendar, celebrates our assurance that loved ones who have gone before us in the faith are enjoying abundant life in heaven. Halloween, on the contrary, is a pagan corruption of this celebration of life. It is day of darkness, dread and fear observed by those who have no assurance of heaven.
The creation itself celebrates this time of year by a magnificent display of beautiful fall colors, followed by a time of rest before breaking forth in the Spring with the joy of new life. Jesus, The Resurrection, The Life and The Light of The World replaces the pagan attitude towards death - fear, uncertainty, dread and darkness - with LIFE, LIGHT, and SURE EXPECTATION. We too are called to express His life, His light and His truth.
"Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness but instead expose them." (Ephesians 5.11) We can transform this season of darkness into a season of light and hope.
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