“Heaven, How I Got Here” is based on the true story of the criminal who was crucified alongside Jesus Christ.
Experience the story of God’s grace, hope, and forgiveness through the eyes of the criminal on the cross.
We invite you to discover the message of hope found in Jesus Christ.
Date: Saturday, October 17
10:00am – 12:00pm
The Orchard Arlington Heights
1300 N. Douglas Ave. Arlington Heights, IL 60004
This production is a filmed one-man stage performance, presented with Japanese dubbing and English subtitles. Whether you speak Japanese or English, we invite you to enjoy this unique presentation together.
Two thousand years ago, Jesus Christ was crucified alongside two criminals. As one of them reflected on his life and the weight of his own sins, he turned to Jesus and pleaded, “Jesus, remember me.” In response, Jesus made him an unexpected promise.
This film tells the story through the eyes of that criminal, revealing what took place during the final hours of his life. In the midst of despair, what did he see? What did he hear? And how did he discover eternal hope?
Based on the true story recorded in the Bible, this is a story of hope, forgiveness, and God’s grace. We invite you to discover the answer through this film.
Two thousand years ago, under the Roman Empire, criminals who had committed serious offenses were sentenced to death by crucifixion.
On that day, Jesus Christ was crucified alongside two criminals. Yet Jesus Himself had committed no crime.
One of the criminals acknowledged his own guilt and, in the final moments of his life, placed his faith in Jesus Christ.
He had no opportunity to start his life over or make up for his past through good deeds. But when he trusted in Jesus, he received an unexpected promise.
This story teaches that eternal life is not something we earn through our own efforts or good works. Rather, it is a gift of God’s grace, given to those who place their faith in Jesus Christ.
The events of the cross did not end as a moment in history 2,000 years ago.
The story of this one man invites each of us to consider two important questions:
What do we place our faith in?
Where do we find our hope?
This film is designed to be accessible even for those who are new to the Bible or Christianity. If you have ever wondered about the meaning of life, searched for lasting hope, or wanted to learn more about Jesus Christ, we warmly invite you to join us for this special screening.
We hope this story will help you discover the hope, forgiveness, and grace that are found in Jesus Christ.
This story is based on the account recorded in Luke 23:39–43 in the Bible.
✓ What it means to be sure of heaven
✓ Why good works cannot save us
✓ The story of the thief on the cross
✓ The three responses God calls us to:
Turn. Ask. Believe.
✓ How you can receive God’s gift of eternal life
Casual attire is perfectly fine. There is no dress code—just come as you are. Our goal is to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for everyone.
No. Admission is completely free.
Yes. Free parking is available at the venue.
We are a group of local Japanese Christians from churches in the Northwest Chicago area. Our desire is to share the hope of Jesus Christ with the Japanese community. In partnership with Open the Bible, we are presenting Heaven, How I Got Here and other biblical resources based on the teaching ministry of Pastor Colin Smith.
No. This is a professionally recorded performance presented with Japanese audio and English subtitles.
Not at all. Everyone is welcome, whether you are a Christian, have another faith, or are simply curious about Jesus.
Yes! We would love to help you organize a screening. Please contact us for more information.
Please feel free to submit any questions about the screening or any other inquiries below.