Hallowe'en | Tim Thornborough

When October 31 comes and the streets fill with crowds of kids dressed as ghosts, ghouls, vampires and witches, the reaction of many Christians is to batten down the hatches and refuse to answer the door.

This is an understandable reaction. Why should we encourage and reward 'trick or treaters' for glorying in the works of the devil? And while it is a harmless bit of fun for many children, there is always a more malicious minority that the more vulnerable among us would not want to open our doors to.

And yet, Hallowe'en represents a great opportunity for us. When else does the local community come flocking to our doors, now that carol singing is passe? And what a perfect opportunity to tell the gospel to those who are flirting openly with the devil and his minions. I've tried this approach in recent years, with great results: why not give it a try this year?

What I always do is comment positively on the time and trouble they have taken on their costumes. And then, bowl of sweets in hand, I ask: 'Who do you think is the most powerful spiritual being in the world?' This line has never failed to start a discussion among the doorknockers. After I have said 'no' to each and every one of their answers, I rephrase: 'OK then, who do you think the Devil is really scared of?' The smart ones work out where I'm heading and sometimes glaze over, seeing that they've been pulled in.

But after some head scratching, I lay the wonderful answer on them: 'God sent a little baby once, who grew to a man. He was the most powerful spiritual being who ever walked the earth - and his name was Jesus of Nazareth. Every time he met a demon, it screamed and fled. Every time the devil tried to tempt him, he left frustrated. And at the very moment that Old Nick thought he'd finally got him - as he died on the Cross - the trap snapped shut, and the Devil himself was defeated. So have a good time tonight - but don't forget you're supporting the losing side!' Then after dispensing the sugar-coated goodwill, I send them on their way sucking a sweet and holding a gospel tract - hopefully a little wiser than when they arrived.

This open-door, open-conversation approach is much more likely to open doors for the gospel than a snarling or aggressive response when the doorbell rings. So, if you're up to it, don't leave the door shut on a great gospel opportunity.

The Good Book Company has published a short, simple and colourful tract this year to give away at the door. They cost just £2.00 for 10. Ring for a sample on 0845 225 0880, or check out the text on www.thegoodbook.co.uk.