The Devil and Hallowe'en

Hallowe'en has long been claimed as the high, holy day of Satan worship. Portrayed by many as a harmless bit of fun for children, it is actually the day when witches and warlocks gather to praise their leader and extend his work on Earth. Festivities are marked by unprecedented evil and blasphemy, with blood sacrifices and hedonistic practices playing prominent parts.

Regretfully, far to many Christian families participate in the same, with children (and parents, too) dressing up as demons, ghosts, skeletons, wizards, etc. We can only surmise how much pleasure Satan derives from this deception.

Satan, we must remember, is the “adversary . . . [who], as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour” (I Peter 5:8), and many times he disguises himself as “an angel of light” (II Corinthians 11:14). We are to “resist [him] steadfast in the faith” (I Peter 5:9), for, “resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).

Although Satan is acknowledged to be “the prince of this world” (John 14:30), his doom is sure. “The God of peace shall bruise [literally 'crush'] Satan under your feet shortly” (Romans 16:20). He will be “cast into the lake of fire and brimstone . . . and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever” (Rev. 20:10).

Until the realisation of that ultimate victory is gained, our mission on Earth is to “turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God” (Acts 26:18).

Accordingly, let us strive to see that his harmful influence is thwarted on this, his 'special' day. The children of each community need protection from the evil influences boldly swarming this night. May we, ourselves, not fall prey to his dark deceptions and, especially in the lives of our children, may we focus their attention on the Light - Who is Jesus - instead.