I got a kick out my friend’s 2-year-old son who went to church in Cleveland Sunday. He figured it would be just like the last crowd he was around – inside a pro hockey arena in Detroit.

He was thrilled to see so many people. “Hockey! Hockey!” he yelled.

Maybe he didn’t realize the players wouldn’t be racing about. But he picked up on the joy. Everyone came out for a great occasion – to worship the King.

No ice, skates, or protective gear. He just needed wonderment and innocence – enough to make Jesus smile.

Matthew 19:14

Jesus, however, said, “Let the little children come to me, and stop keeping them away, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to people like these.”

Jesus doesn’t require much from the rest of us – just hearts open enough to receive what He has for us … as we invite Him to transform our lives.

I saw the new Hulk movie the other day and didn’t even recall the women with low-cut tops and short shorts. Maybe they were on the screen for a second – in the background.

But I have to give these sites credit – they often do provide an honest assessment of the vulgar language, sexuality, gore, etc. Many of their observations are dead on.

Before deciding on a movie, check out  a few of these resources. For example, Mike Myers and Adam Sandler have some so-called comedies out this summer. The problem is that they’re loaded with sexual jokes and sight gags. Do I really want to go to a movie with my 12-year-old son Eric (or let him go to the movies with his friends) just so he can see people cheapen and mock sexuality and intimacy?

I read and paraphrased the entire description of one movie for Eric. I think he finally got the point.

The problem is that youth don’t use enough discretion. So I have to be, well, a parent. I’m sorry he’s embarrased to tell his friends he can’t go. Well, maybe I’m not really sorry. I keep telling him to let them know he doesn’t want to see it – that would be a more mature way to address the issue.

Anyway, here is a handy list. Check out a couple before drawing conclusions. In some cases, take in a movie first and then act like a responsible parent before allowing your children to see what Hollywood suggests they view.

Focus on the Family’s Plugged In
www.pluggedinonline.com/

Kids-In-Mind
www.kids-in-mind.com

Christian Spotlight on Entertainment
http://www.christiananswers.net/spotlight/home.html

ChristianityTodayMovies.com
www.christianitytoday.com/movies

Screen It
www.screenit.com

Parent Previews
http://www.parentpreviews.com

As my book points out, one of our paths to heaven may be a scene from a movie that touches our heart. You still need to be careful about your selections.