Carving Pumpkins

A few years ago, I heard an amazing sermon on the Jack-o-lantern. It explored the significance of it and what it truly represents. Since then I have never looked at a carved pumpkin the same. In all our ugly, Christ still wants us!

Our pastor talked about how we need to look for ways to be ambassadors for Christ no matter what we are doing or where we are. He started out carving a pumpkin and began talking about how, when you think about it, we as humans are a lot alike. We are gross, smelly and pretty empty inside. When Christ gets a hold of us and cleans us out, He begins forming us into His likeness. Then, he started carving the face of the pumpkin... he described how we all have an appearance or emotion, sometimes silly, sometimes sad, sometimes happy and this makes us who we are. When he finished the face and closed the top of the pumpkin, he reminded us that we are dark inside. We are empty, giving nothing to those we come into contact with.

He then put a candle in the center of the pumpkin. The flame was burning bright and strong. It gave off the most beautiful glow. As he turned the lights out, he explained that with Christ we can be a light to the world. No matter if the world around us is cold and dark and ugly.

So, as your walking around your neighborhood or simply handing out candy at home, remember the carved pumpkin, remember the simple truth of Christ. He is our light, even when we are gross, empty and all kinds of ugly. He is there to redeem us!