21 Aug Alumni Interview: Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards is an alumnus of the Residential Fellowship (2018/19) and works as a web developer for DNA, a design consultancy in Wellington. He lives with two friends in Upper Hutt and worships at Lane Park Church. Here, Luke shares some perspectives on gratefulness and Ordinary Time in his own life.
These past few months have been strange the world over. In what ways have your life and daily rhythms changed, and what does your new “ordinary” look like?
I now mostly work from home instead of commuting in to Wellington. As a web developer, lockdown and COVID-19 hasn’t had a large impact on my work, since all of our main work practices were already online, and it’s basically my job to be on the internet. Thankfully, I’m someone who doesn’t mind spending large amounts of time by myself.
I’m still working through what new routines and patterns of life might look like now that working from home will likely become a permanent aspect of my work week.
What are you grateful for in this season, and why?
I’m grateful for good friends and family, the primary connections in my life that continue to be a place of comfort, encouragement, and joy.
I’m also grateful for God’s grace amongst change and his patience with us as we navigate changes in life. The Holy Spirit has brought wisdom and leadership in my life, but also comfort and peace.
What are some opportunities you’ve encountered in this season, and what are you hopeful for in your work, life, and church community?
A lot of work we do at DNA is for the government. At times like this, access to important services and information is essential, so I’m glad I get to serve people in this way.
As mentioned above, this time has opened a space for new habits to be formed. I used to meet with a prayer group in the city, but now that I’m working from home, I’ve needed to find intentional spaces in my day to pray. I’ve also needed to be a bit more intentional about building physical exercise into my routine, rather than relying on the commute into the city for fresh air and exercise. Although that process is still very much in flux, it’s a welcome opportunity for reflection and considered action.
Finally, our church has had a number of new people attend lately, which has been encouraging to see and has opened up opportunities for new connections.
What passages of Scripture have you found helpful and encouraging?
1 Peter 5:11: To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Hebrews 12:1-2: Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Psalm 40:4-6: Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare. Sacrifice and offering you did not desire—but my ears you have opened—burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require.
What’s your favourite podcast, movie, and book?
Podcast
The Allusionist
I’m powering through the back catalogue of this podcast. I’ve always been really interested in words and language, and this podcast is perfect for plunging further into the depths of such a vast and complex aspect of our life.
Movie
Inception
It’s going back a little while now, but Inception is still a favourite.
Book
Factfulness by Hans Rosling
As for a book, I can’t really pick an all-time favourite, so I’ll go for this recent favourite. It’s really insightful, inspiring, and an apt read for these times.
(Image: Supplied)