First fruits and tithes

It was the cultural tradition in the Indigenous village of Gitxaala, where I taught, for the first caught salmon of the season to be shared with the Elders. The successful fishermen would clean the fish and then visit the Elders with their offering of a fresh salmon. I always thought this tradition of honouring the Elders was a beautiful way to express their gratitude to the Elders, who had raised, supported and guided them.

What does the practice of bringing first fruits to God look like in today’s society? Or is bringing first fruits a tradition from a bygone era? Giving God our first fruits doesn’t mean giving God what’s left of our money after all the bills have been paid, taking time for the occasional worship, or minimal participation in church activities or committees. When we make tithing, worship or participation in church a priority over our secular life responsibilities, we are bringing our first fruits to the Lord. It is an honour to God to do so.

We give thee but thine own, whate'er the gift may be; all that we have is thine alone, a trust, O Lord, from thee.* Amen. — JW