Saturday, October 31, 2009

Stepping Stones: Eternal Trick or Treat

Transformational Tip
I never really understood the whole trick or treat thing...who was giving who the option of trick or treat. As I went from house to house, in my pursuit of the perfect blend of Reeses, Sweet-Tarts, money, or something big, were they giving me a choice to accept a trick or treat from them. Was I to do a trick for my treat, like a dog? I was the one saying “trick or treat”, so was I asking them whether they wanted a trick or treat from me? It seemed like the person answering the door was giving me a treat and hopefully I wouldn’t be doing tricks on them. Confusing! Halloween is about pretending to be someone you’re not, then a stranger gives you a small “fun” size treat, a cheap imitation of the real king size candy bar, the jackpot of all jackpots I was hoping for. In the real story, God wants us to come with no costume, not hiding, just baring our soul to Him. We don’t need to be nervous or frightened as we approach His door, in fact, He comes to our door. He isn’t a stranger we only see once a year, but our loving and dear friend who loves us more than anything. Best of all, our heart isn’t filled with cheap imitations of the real treat, we are getting the King of Kings sharing His royal inheritance, all He has is ours. The cost…no trick from us, in fact Jesus did the trick. He died on the cross so I can enjoy all the treats His Father, my Father, can infinitely give above and beyond my hearts desires.
Today, as you think back on past Halloweens, or you take your kids around, or give out candy, be thankful for the treat your Father gave you. Think of who needs this treat and show them how to go “trick or treating” the eternal way. Click here to share with the Stepping Stone community your thoughts on real trick or treating.

Prayer
Dear Father God, you are so amazing. I am so glad I don’t have to pretend with you and you still shower me with so many treats. Help me see and appreciate the many treats you bring into my life, everyday that I often overlook, take for granted, or get entitled about. Give me courage to share with others the treats you have for them, too. I pray in the name of the grandest gift, Christ Jesus, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!

The Truth
He will again have compassion on us; he will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.
Micah 7:19
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1