Going in Grace

Welcome to Going in Grace, a podcast where we go beyond simply understanding God's word. We explore how to live it out daily, making a meaningful impact in our lives and the lives of those around us. Let's tune in to this week's episode.

Everywhere I look, I see more and more being discussed about the return of Christ. I agree that it's important that we stay ready for the Lord's return. I also think it's important that we remember to do what He said until He comes, which is occupy. These words spoken by Jesus, challenge us to live with purpose, intention and a kingdom mindset as we await his return. What does it mean to occupy in this context? And how can we live out this calling in a world that so often seems to pull us away from kingdom priorities? Today, we'll unpack these questions together, rooted in scripture, of course, in the life and ministry of Jesus.

Let's begin by understanding what it means to occupy. The phrase comes from Luke 19:13, in the New King James, where Jesus says in the parable of the minas, "so he called 10 of his servants, delivered to them 10 minus, and said to them, do business till I come." In this parable, Jesus uses the word occupy or do business to describe a state of active engagement. Doing business represents investing and growing. It's not about sitting idly or waiting passively for his return. Instead, it's a call to steward what He's entrusted to us, to advance his kingdom through our lives, gifts, and influence.

The Greek word occupy in this context suggests working diligently and responsibly to achieve results. As followers of Christ, we're tasked with expanding his kingdom on earth, sharing the gospel and living out his teachings in a way that honors him. Jesus didn't leave us with a mission that requires no effort. He left us with the great commission. In Matthew 28:19 through 20, New King James Version, He commands, "go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you. And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

For anyone waiting for an ordination ceremony, or a graduate degree before you are willing to allow the Lord to use you, let me remind you again what the Lord has said to His followers. Go therefore and make disciples students of all the nations. Don't discriminate. If people are willing to listen, you must be willing to share who God is to you. This is the essence of what it means to occupy. We are to be active participants in God's plan for humanity and God's plan has always been to seek and to save those who are lost. His love is too great not to fight for our restored relationships with Him.

Now that we understand what it means to occupy, let's talk about how we can live this out. Here are some practical ways. First, live as ambassadors of Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:20 tells us, "now then we are ambassadors for Christ as though God were pleading through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God." An ambassador's primary duties to another country involve representing their country's interests abroad, maintaining diplomatic relations and promoting foreign policy goals while also ensuring the safety and wellbeing of their citizens in that host country. An ambassador of Christ's duties are similar. We represent God's message of reconciliation and love, living lives that reflect his character and urging others to be reconciled to him, their creator. As ambassadors, we represent Jesus in everything we do, whether in our workplaces, families, or communities, our words and actions should reflect his love, grace, and truth.

Second, let's use our gifts for the kingdom. Each of us has been given unique gifts and talents, and God calls us to use them to glorify him and build his kingdom. 1 Peter 4:10, New King James says, "as each one has received a gift, minister it to one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God." Are you a teacher, an artist, a caregiver, or a leader? Whatever you're gifting,God can use it to bring his light into the world.

Finally, sharing the gospel boldly. One of the most direct ways to advance the kingdom is by sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Romans 10:14 through 15, New King James Version challenges us, "how then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how should they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?" Sharing your faith doesn't have to be intimidating. Start by building relationships, listening with empathy and letting the spirit guide your words.

In a world filled with distractions, it's easy to lose focus on our kingdom purpose, but scripture provides encouragement. Colossians 3:2 New King James Version exhorts us to "set your mind on things above, not on things of the earth." Galatians 6,9 reminds us, "let us not grow weary in well-doing for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." Keeping our eyes on Jesus and staying rooted in His word enables us to move forward even when things are challenging. Prayer and fellowship are also vital.

Surround yourselves with others who are passionate about advancing God's kingdom. It will strengthen and encourage you to stay the course. It will also provoke you to good works as you see others being about the Father's business. I want to leave you with this thought. Occupying until Jesus returns isn't about waiting. It's about working. It's about being faithful stewards of what He's entrusted to us and partnering with Him in His kingdom mission.

Ask yourself, how can I occupy in my daily life? How can I reflect his light, use my gifts and share his truth with others? Remember, you've already been commissioned. So go therefore. Thank you for spending time with me today. If this episode encouraged or challenged you, share it with a friend, and start a conversation on how you can occupy until he comes.

You've been listening to Going In Grace. Be sure to visit us online at brandistover.com.