I think the separation of church and state is a creation and/or extraction for those who don't feel comfortable with religion. That's understandable, certainly. And I do believe that some practical separation assists both church and state.
The church is better to focus on the purpose of its existence: proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ, and serving those in need. When it gets bogged down in trying to exert influence on the state, it invariably gets off its main mission.
The state is better to avoid the strife between competing religious traditions, and likewise should never anoint one religion over another. I, obviously, believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ and that Islam, Mormonism, Buddhism, etc. are all false religions. But I respect the freedom of people to believe as they choose, especially since God grants the same freedom.
My problem is when either is taken to the extreme. If the vast majority of a locale's residents are of a certain religious persuation, and they choose as a community to erect some form of religious imagery (the Ten Commandments, a nativity scene, etc.), I don't believe a small minority should be able to force its will onto the majority. If I went to live in southeast Asia, I would expect and acclimate to the idea that my Christian faith is a minority and live with it.
The Constitution does not provide for the right never to be offended. Many in our modern society need to be reintroduced to that simple fact.
There you have it! Don't worry, I'm not always so long winded.
