Imagine...

There’s an old Beatles song – I’m sure you know it – Imagine. While I have always enjoyed the song, it is the Beatles after all, there’s a line in it that has bothered me – “Imagine there’s no religion”

Of course I am aware of all of the conflicts that have arisen because of religion. From petty arguments to wars between nations – the root cause can often be traced back to religious and faith differences.

But I have found a home in the United Church of Canada. And it was here that I came to better understand Christianity. It was here that my faith and relationship with God were nurtured. Religion can also be where great community and expressions of faith and love are found.

During March I spent an afternoon and evening with some individuals from Amnesty International Philippines Chapter. Here was a group of people coming together with no named religious ties – working together with different creeds and doctrines to end Human Rights Violations. When the struggle is to free the 48 health care workers illegally arrested – with little to no hope of a trial – what church or faith you belong to ceases to matter.



That evening at a table I had a conversation with a Pastor from Tanzania and a social worker from the Philippines. We discussed theology and mission and how our countries and churches were working for, and far too often failing to work for, Human Rights and Dignity.

So when that old Beatles song came on – there in that group I really could imagine that world – with all the people living their life in peace.

I can’t help but believe that this is God’s work. God won’t wait for His churches to respond – She will find servants and leaders elsewhere to bring about the kingdom of God.

Imagine – We can be a part of it too.