For Halloween // 2 Corinthians 4:6

Happy Halloween! How do you feel about this day? Honestly, it isn’t a favorite of mine despite my love of costumes and candy. I don’t like things of the macabre and days like today seemingly glorify it. That being said, I have great memories as a kid of dressing up, trick-or-treating, and devouring the sweet treats. I also cherish doing the same with Ethan and Mia. The fun part of the day can be really fun, while the dark parts can be very dark.

I chose our verse for today based on the idea of light shining out of the darkness so we can know the glory of God in Christ Jesus. Remember: the word glory is a fancy term that points to the presence of God. This IS Jesus who was present at creation, born of the Virgin Mary, embarked upon a three-some-odd-year public ministry, was executed by Rome at the behest of the religious leaders, and was Resurrected on Easter Sunday morning to live and reign forever. Jesus described Himself as the Light of the World (John 8:12) and then told His disciples He shared His light with them to show people that God is real and really good (Matthew 5:16).

Our world is so full of darkness. We need the Light of the World that shines in the darkness and perplexes the forces of evil. Poet, Amanda Gorman, wrote, “There is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.” We know we can be brave because we do not face the darkness alone. Jesus promised to be with us to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20) fulfilling the commandment of God, “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).

So, on a day when some will be celebrating darkness, let’s boldly celebrate the light. After all, it isn’t some concept or precept; no, it’s Jesus Christ, God’s Son and our savior, the Light of the World.