“But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 15:23
There’s something almost sacred about that first few modest harvests from the garden each year—those bright cherry tomatoes, the crisp lettuce, the heat of a fresh radish, and the fragrant bite of garlic scapes. It’s not the full bounty of summer yet, but it’s a promise of what’s coming.
The Apostle Paul, writing to the Corinthians, calls Jesus the firstfruits of those who will rise from the dead. That means His resurrection wasn’t just a singular miracle—it was the beginning of a greater harvest: the full redemption and resurrection of all who belong to Him.
In a similar way, those early harvests in the garden are not just about the present moment. They are a preview—a taste—of the abundance that will follow if the season continues in faithfulness. And just as a few vegetables point to more growth ahead, every sign of grace in our lives is a foretaste of the full glory to come.
The perseverance of the Christian life—these are spiritual “firstfruits.” They don’t just show what has happened, they reveal what will happen.
Today, let that homegrown meal remind you: because Christ has risen, the full harvest is certain in Him.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for this small but beautiful harvest. Let it remind me that all good things come from You. Help me to honor You not just with the abundance, but with the first and the small. Teach me to live with open hands, ready to give back in faith what You’ve graciously given to me. Amen.
