First Fruits

This weekend we’re planning to celebrate the kickoff of our Crossing Together Celebration with a Firstfruits Offering.

Firstfruits was a Jewish feast held in the early spring at the beginning of the grain harvest. It was observed on the third day after Passover and the second day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Firstfruits was a time of thanksgiving for God’s provision.

In the New Testament, the firstfruits offering is mentioned seven times, always meaning a first portion of a larger harvest. Paul taught the Corinthian believers to set aside a collection “on the first day of the week” (1 Corinthians 16:2), and, just as the offering of firstfruits was an occasion of thanksgiving, so we are to give with gladness and gratitude.

At our services this week, I am planning to announce the final total of the commitments from our cards three weeks ago. We said from the beginning of April that we were looking for a miracle, and I believe that there will be great joy as I share the “number” out loud with everyone. In celebration, I’m asking everyone to prepare two offerings this week. One will be our regular offering, and the second will be a firstfruits offering (a portion of what you committed to give over the next year).

Just as God continues to exceed our expectations, I believe that this offering might be another miracle in our midst. Imagine what it would be like to complete ¼ or ½ of the whole amount of the total in ONE DAY!

It is not impossible at all. For those who committed to give weekly over the next year, you might consider doubling up for this first offering. If you committed to give monthly over the next year, maybe you might double up for the first offering as well. Those planning to give a lump sum gift might choose to give it this week instead of waiting until the end or until the end of the year. There are still some of you who will be out of town this weekend. Perhaps you might bring your firstfruits envelope by the church office before you leave town.

No matter what, the goal this weekend is not a “number.” It’s JOY. The offering of first fruits was always an opportunity to bless the Lord with gifts. That’s why we’ve decided to have our own special weekend and call it Firstfruits. We serve a God who has lavished His grace, mercy, love and forgiveness on us. Let’s celebrate Him with an extravagant, festive atmosphere!

See you this weekend!

Branson