Being a pioneer in any pursuit is one of the most exciting, challenging and rewarding experiences anyone can have.

Armstrong, Hillary, Bannister. What do these names mean to us? They were all pioneers. Neil Armstrong was the first man on the moon. Sir Edmund Hillary was the first to climb Mt. Everest and Dr. Roger Bannister was the first athlete to run a mile in under four minutes. They were all first in their field of endeavor.

We, too, are called to be pioneers, or firstfruits, in God's Kingdom. The three pioneers mentioned were all part of teams. Neil Armstrong was accompanied by Buzz Aldrin and Mike Collins, plus the backup of Mission Control in Houston. Sir Edmund Hillary had the help of his Sherpa guide, Tensing Norgay, and many others in camps along the way. Roger Bannister was helped by a team of coaching staff and medical advisors.

On our pioneering journey to God's Kingdom we need the support of our fellow workers in the local churches. We also need the invisible spiritual support team of God's Mission Control.

In Exodus 17:8-14 we see an example of Moses relying on close teamwork to hold up his hands during a time of war. We must hold up each others' hands. We also pray to enlist the spiritual help from God's Mission Control.

Pioneers have an absolute belief that they can achieve their objective. In Proverbs 10:24 we are told that our desire (belief) will become a reality. We must concentrate on our vision of God's Kingdom of beauty, peace and harmony.

As pioneers, it is essential that we obey the rules of our calling, God's commandments. Encapsulated for us in Exodus 20:1-17, they mark the boundaries for us on our journey.

Jesus Christ is the ultimate pioneer. He made it as the first into God's Kingdom. We can be next to join Him! Paul confirms our calling to be the firstfruits and in the first resurrection to join our fellow pioneers from all ages (1 Corinthians 15:20-23).

It's a wonderful future for us all. Much more exciting than going to the moon. We shall experience galaxies yet undreamed of! Much better than climbing a mountain. We shall reach higher and greater wonders. And much more exhilarating than a four-minute mile. We will travel at the speed of thought! Truly wonderful!