By Delwyn Holder, Managing Director, Hour of Power New Zealand
“I have traveled to many different countries; Spending many weeks exploring Europe and UK, several trips to USA and Australia, Asia, UAE, India, Pacific Islands, and even the Middle East … but many of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in the world have been right here in my home country of New Zealand.
New Zealand is a condensed wonderland, juxtaposing beaches, cities, lush native bush, fertile farms, stunning glaciers, hot springs, volcanoes, picturesque plains and majestic mountain ranges, and it fuels our nation’s adventurous love of travel and the outdoors. For me, this display of natural wonders is a constant reminder of God’s creativity, beauty, awesomeness, and generous provision.
Even in a remote corner of the world, God has made a way to reach every person with His love! As Bobby reminds us often, you can be God’s hands and feet, to reach out and influence those in the 15-feet around you, in your community, your country, and beyond — even as far as New Zealand!
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.” Acts 1:8-9
New Zealand is often referred to as Jerusalem’s antipode — a little-known paradise at the furthest corner of the earth. Aotearoa, the Maori name for New Zealand, is translated as the “Land of the Long White Cloud” and, with less than 5 million inhabitants, this extraordinary little country is constantly on travel site’s top-10 places in the world for good reason! Yes, I’m sure you are familiar with the idyllic scenes of Hobbiton and epic adventures of “Lord of the Rings;” Home of the kiwifruit, bungy-jumping, and the All Blacks (the world’s best rugby team).
For you, New Zealand can be more than just a desirable holiday destination, it can also be an extension of your mission-field, through Hour of Power:
In recent census results, almost half (46%) of New Zealanders say they have “No Religion” (contrasted against only 16% of the US population). While less than half the New Zealand population identify as having Christian beliefs, actual church attendance is reported to be only around 10-15% of the population.
This means there is a significant opportunity for us to reach out beyond our church walls, and to utilize a variety of means to share the wonderful Good News of God’s great love, and that’s where Hour of Power continues to make a difference, through our television ministry.
“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Have they not heard? Yes, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.” Romans 10:17-18
Hour of Power has been broadcast in New Zealand since 1995, and the program continues to encourage and inspire people throughout New Zealand, proclaiming the love of God each week.
Through your continued partnership with Hour of Power, we can be God’s far-reaching witnesses here on earth. Thank you for helping Hour of Power continue to create and share such great Christian content, which truly has a global impact.
Of course, you are all invited to come visit New Zealand, and share in awe and wonder of some of God’s exceptional creation here!! And if you are ever adventuring down to New Zealand on holiday, you will be excited to find that you’ll be able to keep up-to-date with Hour of Power episodes broadcasting the same day as in the US.
I thank you all so much for your prayers and partnership!
