I Corinthians 15:19-23 (ESV)
   19 If in this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.
   20 But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ.

This is my second year of gardening peppers.  It is a much more exciting prospect the second time around for this city-boy because I know what will follow.  The plants grow, then little flowers bud and finally, the first fruit of my care and anticipation pushes its way through the dead pedals of the formerly tiny flowers.  It is a pepper, the first!  And now I know that many will follow because my pepper plants are following the Divine plan of God, established at the dawn of their creation.  First the flower, the flower dies, the first fruit, then many to follow.

I was recently browsing my Facebook page, when I noticed someone had posted a Youtube video of "Jesus Christ Superstar", the finale, when Jesus emerges from his grave, alive and full of glory.  Many of the players are dancing around excitedly as the play's theme is played loudly and energetically.  It is a grand celebration. I wanted to get up and dance, too, in excitement.

The excitement of seeing the first fruit of my home garden peppers and the excitement of seeing a musical portrayal of the resurrection of Jesus Christ helped me understand the spiritual significance of the metaphor of "firstfruits".  With the first pepper comes the assurance of more peppers, I know for sure, now.  With the knowledge I have been given by the Spirit of Christ's resurrection comes the assurance of faith, that I too will follow Him when the flowering of my life ends on earth.  "Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ."

 19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Life is much more exciting when you see evidence of what is coming next.  From my first pepper, I know more peppers will come.  From the knowledge of Christ's resurrection, I know I may follow into eternal life and encourage others with this hope.

by Pastor John