OCCUPIED OR PREOCCUPIED?

When headlines scream at us with events like the bombing of Iran, it is easy to become preoccupied with the latest crisis. Since it involves Israel and the Middle East with global impact, it often inspres Christians to look intently at prophetic implications.

Are we approaching the return of Christ?

Of course we are--every day brings us nearer. Maybe it is today, or tomorrow. We ought to be looking up for that is our blessed hope!

Yet, rather than being preoccupied with signs and trying to discern them, we ought to be occupied with souls and trying to win them! The prophetic Scriptures are given not for us to debate but to motivate. Our Lord, in the parable of the pounds, said, "Occupy till I come," (Lk. 19:13b KJV). Take what resources--your time, talent, and treasure--and get busy as good stewards, knowing that a day of accountability is coming.

Don't misunderstand--we should read current events through the lens of the Bible. I am an advocate for the study of prophecy. Jesus is coming--and I think soon. But, let us not become preoccupied with the future and fail to be occupied with the task at hand. "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." (Matt. 24:14). The end times should mobilize us to the evangelistic task!

Watching and Working,

Dennis Thurman, Mission Strategist