OCCUPY TILL I COME

And he called his ten servants, delivered them ten minas, and said unto them, 'Occupy till I come.’ — Luke 19:13 (KJV)

The words “Occupy till I come” were spoken by Jesus in the Parable of the Minas. In this parable, a nobleman entrusted his servants with money before going on a journey. He instructed them to conduct business and make good use of what had been given to them until his return. Spiritually, the nobleman represents Jesus Christ, while the servants represent every believer. The message is clear: while we wait for Christ's second coming, we are not to remain idle. Instead, we are to faithfully serve Him, using every gift, talent, opportunity, and resource for His glory.

Many Christians eagerly anticipate the return of Jesus, and rightly so. However, waiting for His return does not mean withdrawing from life's responsibilities or becoming passive. Instead, it means living each day with purpose, faithfully carrying out God's work. Every believer has received something from God—whether spiritual gifts, abilities, time, finances, knowledge, or influence. These are not meant to be hidden or wasted but invested in advancing God's Kingdom.

The Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14–30 reinforces this truth. Three servants were given different amounts according to their abilities. Two servants used their talents wisely and gained more, while one buried his talent out of fear. When the master returned, the faithful servants were commended with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." The unfaithful servant, however, was rebuked for failing to use what had been entrusted to him. This teaches us that God expects faithfulness rather than excuses.

Occupying until Christ comes includes living a holy life. The world is filled with distractions, temptations, and pressures that can draw believers away from God's purpose. 1 Peter 1:15–16 reminds us, "Be ye holy; for I am holy." Christians must reflect the character of Christ in their speech, conduct, relationships, and daily decisions. Our lives should point others to Jesus.

It also means spreading the Gospel. Before ascending into heaven, Jesus gave His followers the Great Commission, saying, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations" (Matthew 28:19–20). Every Christian has a responsibility to share the message of salvation through words and actions. Whether through preaching, teaching, encouraging others, supporting missions, or living as a faithful witness, we are called to participate in God's mission.

Serving others is another important aspect of occupying until Christ returns. Jesus Himself said, "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve" (Mark 10:45). As His followers, we should use our gifts to bless those around us. Acts of kindness, generosity, hospitality, and compassion demonstrate God's love and bring glory to His name.

Faithfulness also requires perseverance. There will be challenges, disappointments, and seasons when serving God feels difficult. Some may face opposition because of their faith, while others may become discouraged by unanswered prayers or delayed results. Yet Galatians 6:9 encourages believers, "Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." God sees every act of obedience and promises to reward those who remain faithful.

Occupying until Christ comes also involves wise stewardship. Everything we have belongs to God, and we are accountable for how we use it. Our time, finances, careers, relationships, and spiritual gifts should all be managed in ways that honor Him. A faithful steward recognizes that life is a trust from God, not merely a possession to enjoy.

The return of Jesus is certain, though no one knows the exact day or hour (Matthew 24:36). Therefore, believers must live with readiness, expecting His return while remaining diligent in His work. When Christ comes again, He will reward those who have served Him faithfully. What a joy it will be to hear Him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

As we await our Lord's return, let us remain committed to prayer, Bible study, worship, evangelism, and faithful service. Let us use every opportunity to glorify God and bless others. May we never become spiritually lazy or distracted by the temporary things of this world. Instead, let us faithfully occupy until He comes, knowing that our labor in the Lord is never in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).