Every day we are surrounded by blessings from God
James 1:17–18 reminds us:
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.”
This is a good and healthy way to view life and everything in it:
- Appreciate what is good and beautiful about the things and people God has placed in our lives.
- Thank God for the many good things and people in our lives.
- Use what God has given us in ways that show that we love God and love to others.
- Let people know you thank God for them
This is why Martin Luther once encouraged people to look at a cow in a field and say, “Rejoice and be glad, I bring you milk and butter from God.” Often the gifts God gives us provides us with far more than what we see.
Technology
This is also why, as a church, we are considering how we can use technology well to share God’s message and Good News and to help others know they are loved by God. Like many other gifts, technology can be used for harm or for good. We can use it in selfish, destructive ways—or we can use it to bless, love, and encourage others, helping them connect with the God who always loves us and all people.
Some current ways we are already using Technology
- Livestreaming Worship Services: Currently provided by Mountainside Auckland Lutheran Church (https://www.youtube.com/@mountainsidelutheranchurch2920) and St Paul’s Upper Moutere Lutheran Church (contact stpauls.lutheranpastor@gmail.com for access). Livestreaming enables people who work on Sundays or live in communities without a local Lutheran congregation to worship alongside us.
- Online Meetings & Pastoral Care: Using Microsoft Teams and Zoom for bible studies, meetings, and pastoral care.
- Podcasts: Pastor Mark Tung reaches Mandarin-speaking communities with the Gospel through a dedicated podcast (contact mark.tung@lutheran.org.nz).
- Bible apps, PowerPoint, and worship presentation software to enhance ministry.
These tools are already proving to be a blessing to both our church members and the wider community. Please continue praying that we explore new ways to use the gift of technology wisely, while responding well to some of the negative aspects that arise from using technology.
Next Connecting Visit
In late October and early November, I will be visiting congregations across New Zealand. If you would like to connect, please feel free to email me at richard.schwedes@lca.org.au.
I pray your adventure with Jesus continues to bring blessings to you and everyone you meet!
Bishop Richard Schwedes
Lutheran Church of New Zealand and
Lutheran Church of Australia – NSW & ACT District
Sydney
August 2026
