The code of Deuteronomy, a painstaking listing of statutes and ordinances given by God to Moses, begins in chapter 12 and formally concludes here in chapter 26 where, in 26:1, the entire nature and identity of a whole people is abruptly changed _ they "have come into the land." The first fruits offering called for is thus nothing less than the people's gracious recognition of their transformation from homeless, anonymous wanderers to a people of the land. The first fruits offerings _ like all the statutes and ordinances in the Deuteronomic code _ are demonstrations of thanksgiving and obedience characteristic of those who have been redeemed and provided for by God. The phrase "when you have come into the land" is not a statement about geography. It is a promise and affirmation of salvation…