I have lived in peach paradise for over twenty years and always contented myself with the seconds which were generously provided by my sil's peach farming friends (PFFs). Firsts were outrageously expensive; seconds were free--what else did I need to know? Those with experience told me that seconds were just as delectable as firsts, merely smaller with perhaps a few blemishes. I believed them--until now.
A record peach harvest one month later than normal this year left our peach farmers with luscious fruit, unmarketable merely by poor timing. Most peach growers here continued to charge their usual prices, but one family gave away literally hundreds of boxes for various church fundraisers. That's how I was able to experience the explosive taste of truly succulent firsts. They're not just bigger; they're actually better. A lot better. And that's why I can never be truly happy with seconds ever again.
So I was thinking: have I done that in my relationship with Christ? Chosen the easy "seconds" that require little commitment on my part--surface conversations with my Christian friends; spoon-feeding by the preacher or Bible class teacher; Scripture skimmings in a spare moment; gentle Bible story reminders as I'm teaching the little kids, but with no depth for my own growth? Or do I sacrifice to take hold of the delightful, satisfying "firsts" gained only through time with Christ in His Word and through prayer? Do I open myself up to spiritual challenge from other Christians, possible only after sharing our hearts and lives with each other?
Have I lived so long with seconds that I've forgotten (or never known) something better?
Addendum: On further reflection, perhaps what I should do is graciously accept the seconds that are sent my way (they do still make tasty pies and cobblers)while also looking for ways to add the firsts as I'm able.
My husband leaves for work at 5:20 a.m. He does hard, physical labor all day in the oil field, then gets home between 9:00 and 9:30 p.m. He eats supper and tries to get to bed by 10:30 so he can start all over again the next morning at 4:50. He does this Monday through Friday and every other weekend. He just celebrated his 55th birthday. This man is a Prince of Hard Workers.
But I've titled him King, right? Here's what puts him on the throne. After a day of relentless toil, this is a common sight:
He and Book, opening the Word for a late-night study.
About two weeks ago, a steady buzz met my ears when I stepped out back. I smiled, knowing it was that time of year. Some of my younger children, not understanding, suggested we spray the source--bees all over our apple tree!
"Oh, no," I said. "If we kill these workers just to stop their noise, we'll have no apples this fall."
Little eyes widened, and another educational opportunity arose.
There's more than one lesson to be learned here, don't ya think?
I'm Stephanie, thrilled to be Gary's wife since May '85 and mom to six girls (9/89, 7/91, 5/93, 4/96, 11/04, 1/07) and three boys (2/98, 1/00, 11/01). We live with Gary's parents (ages 90 and 88) on an acre of land in western CO.
