Halloween, or...

HALLOWEEN
All Saints Day
Daniel 7:18
"But the saints of the Most High will receive the kingdom and possess it forever—yes, for ever and ever."

You may recognize this as Halloween, the contraction of "Hallow’s even." All Saint’s Day started as a solemn celebration, instituted to honor all the saints known and unknown.

Early Christians were accustomed to solemnize the anniversary of a martyr’s death. Frequently, groups of martyrs suffered on the same day. This led to a combined remembrance for them.

Originally celebrated May 13th, 373, A.D., this ritual, is also known as All Hallow’s Day or Hallowmas.

Pope Gregory III changed the celebration to be held on November 1st.

Besides breaking from the Holy Church of Rome, Martin Luther posted his 95 theses which is the basis for many denominations of Christianity today. Honoring this on October 31st conveniently combines commemorating All Saint’s Day with his posting of the theses.

Reformation Sunday is celebrated in many denominations the last Sunday of October.

This timing blends easily with Samhain, the Celtic pagan holiday that literally means summer’s end. This occasion was marked with thanksgiving, sacrifices, divination and prayers. The harvest was gathered in to protect it against wintry blasts. This ushers in the dark, cold half of the year.

In the first century, Rome conquered Ireland. This action melded holidays that combined pagan and Christian festivals. Christianity blended into the mix of festivals, each with their own brand of honoring the dead. All Soul’s Day, established by Saint Odilo of Cluny on Nov 2nd, remembers the souls awaiting release from purgatory.

Instead of ghouls, goblins, and witches, think of Halloween in its authentic Christian intent. Untold number of people were martyred for their faith in Jesus Christ. This is the day for us to remember and honor their death. The first one was Jesus, Himself. Maybe you can honor these martyred saints by dressing up as angels, warriors, or monks or nuns.

Take Home Nugget

The passage in Daniel is not a joke. We, who embrace Jesus Christ as our King, the Son of Father God, are included in the number of saints. We will live with Him in Heaven forever and ever. We will serve our King, in various capacities, some as rulers. This kingdom will never end. Each person has free will, and it’s never too early to chose sides. Won’t you choose Jesus and paradise?

Celebrations still hold true from times past.

Only the most significant are meant to last.

Instead of dressing up as ghouls,

Choose Saintly dress riding on mules.

J. D. Griffith

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