And the Halloween debate continues. . .

"What, exactly, does modern-day Halloween celebrate? I'm not so sure that the answer is mere neighborliness and fun. In my view, Halloween cannot be disassociated from its pagan origins and trappings, and to attempt to do so may be irresponsible. Also irresponsible is the rationalization that it's OK to participate because it's fun and everyone else does. Halloween customs unfortunately come with a lot of baggage."

That is a quote from a recent blog I read, and it is supported by hundreds of thousands of Christians, mostly fundamental, who can't enjoy the holiday due to it's "pagan roots." Let me just quickly wrap this one up by saying that I am sure those Christians are remaining consistent by also not celebrating and enjoying Christmas and Easter. In case you are wondering, yes, both of those holidays have pagan origins.

BUT, the argument will be made, Christmas and Easter at least specifically deal with Jesus and the Church. First of all, I'm not sure if that is quite accurate, seeing how every pastor in the world will at least once from the pulpit this year attack the commercialism of the holiday. But, if that is your stance, then fine. But you need to refine your argument from "I don't celebrate Halloween because of it's origins" to "I don't celebrate Halloween because it doesn't specifically deal with Jesus and His message." But then we need to eliminate the 4th of July, birthdays, going to the movies, sports, and any other non-Jesus related event from your calendar. The point of Christianity is not to remove ourselves from anything that comes across as "pagan", but rather to shine brightly and uniquely in a world that needs to hear about the Good News. Check out Luke 8:16-17. Jesus says a little something about a light and a basket. Believe it or not, the Bible is really a good read. Try it.