Firstfruits (Part 3)

Badden’s story reveals the outward life of a man weighed down by problems—some of them self‑inflicted.  And, the miracle that can unfold when someone finally turns to Christ. Our first moment of Salvation doesn’t always happen aloud, but our fruits will be evident as we begin walking in a life worthy of Christ.

In LOTK, we might never believe God could use a dwarf (a person) like Badden for His glory. A drunkard, a misfit, a rabblerouser—those labels fit him well. Yet in LOTKS, there is a moment of clarity, conviction, and salvation when Badden speaks to his brother.

Badden’s transformation finally becomes visible in LOTKR. He apologizes for his past failures, forgives his brother, and journeys into Old Gathstrom to recover the Cobalt Armor and Justice. He battles the goblins, is swept away by the rising waters, and ultimately reemerges to claim his rightful place.

As Christians, we must apologize when we have sinned against another (Matthew 5:23–24). We must also forgive others as Christ has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:32). These two steps are a journey of self‑reflection about our past—hence Old Gathstrom.

As we move forward, we are to remain clothed in righteousness, represented by the Cobalt Armor, and continue to seek justice—symbolized by Badden’s new axe. Along its handle are the words “grow in strength and knowledge,” rooted in 2 Peter 3:18.

The goblins represent the foxes from Song of Solomon 2:15—those little problems that can cause great damage in our relationship with God and with others. These goblins, or foxes, must be destroyed. We cannot allow small sins to remain unchecked. Even a tiny spark can burn down an entire forest. Badden’s path is only beginning to unfold, and the next blog reveals even more truths. Stay with me as we continue our ascent out of Old Gathstrom and into victory.

“Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body.”

Romans 8:23