This time of the year brings mixed reactions from children's ministries. Some take a very conservative stance and pull back, while others see it as a harmless way to have fun and reach out.
I'm not going to get into the middle of that debate. You'll see below where I land.
For me, whether or not you use Halloween as a time of fun or outreach, is not the point. The point is we are surrounded by boys, girls, dads, moms, grandparents...whole families that need Jesus. I think we get so caught up in proving our point that sometimes we lose focus on what really matters.
People desperately need Jesus. And God has called us to introduce people to Him. Don't get caught up in how other churches are doing this. For every breath of energy we spend debating, we could be sharing the love and message of Jesus Christ with the world.
Let's quick bickering and get busy doing what God has left us here on this earth to do...reaching people with His message of hope. Let's move our pointing finger away from other churches and point them toward the heartbeat of Jesus. He came to seek and to save those who are lost.
There's this thing called the Great Commission. It's supposed to be our top priority as believers and kidmins. Lots of times there's a whole lot more talking going on than fulfilling it.
I don't know how that looks for you and your ministry. That's up to you to figure out as you seek God's face. For us it looks like this during Halloween...
IN - At some of our campuses we are using the event as a time of outreach on campus. We are providing a safe place for our families to come while at the same time encouraging them to bring unchurched neighbors, families, and friends.
OUT - At some of our campuses we are going out in the community and setting up booths at our city events. Getting outside the walls of the church and into the marketplace. Bringing hope and love to those in our community who don't know Jesus. I see the word "Go" alot when Jesus shares His heart.
In...out....sit at home with the lights out...go door to door...host a party at your church or house...whatever works for you...
Just reach people...in the end it won't matter if you won the debate or not...it will only matter how many kids and families we shared the Good News with.
Posted by Dale Hudson
