The LORD looks down from heaven on humankind to see if there are any who are wise, who seek after God. (Psalms 14:2 NRSV Bible)
The Hollywood version of life after death is portrayed in Albert Brooks' movie, "Defending Your Life." Brooks plays the part of Daniel Miller, an advertising man who is killed by a bus. He finds himself in Judgment City along with many other people. They are ushered into the city with all the efficiency of a bus tour.

Newly arrived persons are taken to what appears to be hotels and told to sleep because they are tired from their transformation. Their assignment is to spend one week in Judgment City reviewing their lives. A defender is assigned to Daniel Miller who explains the process to him. In a courtroom they will review nine days of his life. Then the judges will decide whether or not he will move ahead or return to earth and attempt to live a better life.

The episodes shown on the giant television screen of Daniel Miller's life reveal a man who is often fearful and afraid to take action. The prosecutor recommends that he return to earth to work on conquering his fears.

While in Judgment City he meets a woman named Julia. Julia brings out the best in Daniel. The last scene of the movie shows Daniel boarding a bus back to earth. Julia has boarded another bus to an unknown destination. Daniel sees Julia and runs toward her bus, clinging to the bus window for dear life. At that moment Daniel is able to conquer his fears and is allowed to join Julia. In typical Hollywood fashion, they both are advanced to a better life.

"Defending Your Life" is only one of several movies that deals with the subject of life after death. LIFE magazine has done featured articles on the same subject. Both believers and unbelievers are asking questions about life on the other side. Devout people will forever want to know what heaven will be like. However, for those who live with Jesus Christ in their hearts, we know our reward will be eternal salvation in the presence of our loving God. That, of course, is the most important point of heaven.

Dear Jesus, thank you for giving me the peace of knowing that with you death is not the end of my story. Amen.

Ron Newhouse

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