Is Heaven for Real?

– 4-yr-old Jakei –

Last Friday, we were invited by PLDT Home DSL to a special screening of the movie “Heaven is For Real”.   The movie was rated GP by the board so we took the kids with us although I initially had misgivings as the theme of the movie may be too profound for their age.  I’m glad I decided to bring them along as the movie proved to be a good springboard for discussions about faith.

The movie is based on the book Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back written by Todd Burpo, the father of the little boy who went to heaven and back.  Greg Kinnear plays Todd Burpo who was a pastor of a small town in Nebraska.   Connor Corum does an adorable portrayal of the 4-yr-old Colton who survives an appendectomy two days after his appendix ruptured and who soon after innocently narrates bits and pieces of his trip to heaven.

Those of us who believe in Jesus may have different views of what heaven looks like.  It is understandable for even the most devout Christians to be sceptical about Colton’s experience.  Rainbow colored horses, heaven that looks the same as here on earth only much prettier, a place where no one is old and no one wears glasses…these do seem to be merely from a child’s rich imagination.  However, we must understand that the story was shared not to replace biblical truths but to inspire us to continue living as Christ regardless of trials that come our way and to give us a glimpse of what awaits us in heaven.

I myself loved the movie and am getting a copy of the book as well.  I’d love to hear more of Colton’s account of heaven and how his family remains steadfast in faith despite their struggles here on earth.  I asked my kids if they liked the movie and both had mixed feelings about it.  My 4-yr-old son loved it and wants to watch it again.  My 5-yr-old daughter didn’t like it that much because she was afraid that her appendix might burst like the little boy.  I also asked them if they learned anything from the movie and my son had this to say:

“If you believe in God and Jesus and in Heaven, it will be real.”

I must warn you though, be ready with a box of tissue when you watch it. Oh and, if you’re watching with your little ones as well, be ready with answers to hundreds of questions too.