I read something interesting about Chinese mythology today.

They have a Jade Emperor who comes closest to the concept of God in other religions. During New Year, the chinese burn symbolic paper money to pay for the travel of domestic Gods to Jade Emperor. These Gods report Jade Emperor on home affairs. The chinese smear malt sugar in the lips of their Kitchen God so that He will either give a favorable report on their household or remain silent.

I found this practice rather sweet. Kind of brings the deities within reach of humans - almost making them mortal. This story also brought up another picture - that of hindu God Krishna in his baby avatar with dollops of butter on His lips :-)