Recently the congregation of a London church were asked to lift up their phones so that they could be "blessed". Up in the air they went, a vast array of Blackberries, Nokias, iphones, Motorolas, Palms...

And that's just a few of the thousands of communication and entertainment devices we carry around with us. Some of the congregation put laptops on the altar as well - and then the church leader prayed that God's grace would reach people through the use of this technology.

Gadgets are useful, most people find them essential in fact. But gadgets are no longer just about the job they do; they're a statement about you - hi-tech jewellery, saying "I've made it, I'm connected and up-to-date."

But it's hard to keep up. Today's top-of-the-range bit of tech bling is tomorrow's out-of-use brick - fit for recycling.

Jesus said life was about much more than what you wear or own. He pointed to the possibility of gaining "spiritual riches" that will never wear out, "treasure in heaven", as He described it.

We'll use phones and gadgets, sure, and they'll end up in the recycle bin. One day even our bodies will wear out. But if we've invested in "heaven's treasure", like Jesus said - by following Him and living His way - God will "recycle" us, create for us new bodies for eternity.

Now that beats even the most impressive technology.

See also: Culture Vulture: Gonna get myself connected
Culture Vulture: The cross factor
Culture Vulture: Undying love

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