Now, I realise this can be quite a hot potato in many churches today, but for me personally - I've come to appreciate the image and beauty of God throughout all the world - both geographic and of humanity. Sure that image is marred and blurred, and yet it is still there - in his fallen, yet beloved humanity - even music, even perhaps within some non-Christian music.

It actually goes a whole lot deeper than music. I've personally come to realise that God isn't limited to religion.  I've come to appreciate that God is love, and when a mother in a war torn or drought stricken country cradles and soothes her dying infant - that God is there.

When a non-Christian businessman gives money to the poor or starving, God is there.

When we experience the joy and rhythm of song and music that express so eloquently the love and beauty of humanity and relationships  - that God is also there.

He might not be present or represented by the total person, song or action, and while there may well be areas of fallen humanity within that person or area - it is still an expression of God's image and love, and I guess that describes most of us as followers of Christ.

P.s. I'm looking forward to celebrating life and friends at our upcoming Annual Church Ball.