Slumdog Millionaire

I loved the movie, “Slumdog Millionaire.” If you haven’t seen it, you really should. The more I learn about the movie, the more I LOVE it! I have never been to India, but I believe the producers did an excellent job of portraying life in the slums in a real and solemn way. Children play in sewers. Thousands of people live in landfills. Orphans are intentionally handicapped by adults so that they will receive more pity, (and hopefully) more money.

Did you know two of the beautiful children in the movie are really kids who live on the streets of Mumbai? Can you imagine these families and their response as the casting director asked for their children to star in a US These children were able to walk the red carpet at the Oscars a few weeks ago!! I know there is some controversy about this. Some people question whether a trip to Hollywood was in the best interest of the children, who, have already returned to their ‘real life’ of struggle and hardship.

I understand their concern….however; I think this is a beautiful picture of what God does for us. I think this the essence of grace, unmerited favor. Out of the miry slums and tin shacks of Mumbai, two children are selected to star in a movie, walk on the red carpet on Oscar Night, go on stage at the Oscar’s to receive their Academy Award for Best Picture, and top of their journey with a trip to Disney Land!

If you have ever had the privilege to minister to orphans and street children, perhaps your heart skipped a beat when you watched Slumdog, as well. God has broken my heart for children just like Rubina Ali and Azhruddin Mohammed. More than 2,000 times the Bible mentions caring for the poor. Taking care of orphans and widows is central to having a heart like Christ. Go watch the movie. Then, pray about how God wants to use YOU to make a difference.