Redeeming the Day: How God Can Use Even a Holiday Many See as Negative for His Glory
Every year, when October rolls around, Christians are faced with a question: What do we do with Halloween? Some see it as dark, rooted in superstition or practices that glorify fear and death. Others embrace it as a harmless night of costumes, candy, and fun. But as followers of Christ, we are called to view every day, even those with questionable reputations through the lens of God’s sovereignty. The truth is, no day belongs to the enemy. “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24). That includes October 31st.
A Biblical Perspective: God Redeems What the World Misuses
Throughout Scripture, God shows us that He is in the business of redemption. He took a blood-stained Roman cross, a symbol of shame, torture, and death and made it the ultimate sign of victory and eternal life. He used Joseph’s betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment to save an entire nation. Time and again, God takes what was meant for evil and turns it for good (Genesis 50:20). If He can redeem those situations, surely He can redeem a holiday.
An Opportunity at Our Doorstep
Halloween brings people to our doors—literally. On no other night of the year do children and families from all around the neighborhood come knocking, smiling, and looking to receive something from us. What an incredible opportunity! While the world may focus on candy, costumes, or even darker themes, Christians can shine light in the middle of it. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14).
Handing out candy is fine; kids love it, but what if we gave more? What if, along with a handful of chocolate, we shared God’s Word in a way that was engaging, thoughtful, and life-giving? A simple tract, a verse card, or a small note of encouragement could plant a seed that God will grow in a child’s heart.
Redeeming Conversations
It’s not only about kids. Parents walk with them too. A smile, a word of kindness, or even a short invitation to your church’s fall festival or trunk-or-treat event can open the door to deeper conversations. Many families today are longing for hope and direction, often without knowing where to turn. By being intentional, we can redeem the moment for God’s glory.
Living on Mission—Every Day
The Christian life isn’t about hiding from the world’s darkness, but shining Christ’s light in the midst of it. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 5:15-16 to “Be very careful, then, how you live, not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” Notice he didn’t say to avoid the days because they’re evil. He said to redeem them. That’s our calling.
Final Thoughts
Halloween may carry negative associations, but it doesn’t belong to the enemy. Every day is God’s day, and every moment is a chance to show His love. Rather than fearing or retreating, we can step forward with courage and creativity, using even October 31st to plant seeds of truth.
Redeeming the day doesn’t mean ignoring its challenges—it means seeing it through the eyes of a God who can transform anything for His glory. Comments? What do you think? Should we hide away calling Halloween evil or should we make it the greatest evangelistic day of the year, reaching millions with the Gospel? The choice is ours.
Mike
