Going to Heaven – A Funny Spiritual Story by Anthony de Mello

A priest walked into a pub, indignant to find so many of his parishioners there. He rounded them up and shepherded them into the church.

The he solemnly said, “All those who want to go to heaven, step over here to the left.” Everyone stepped over except one man, who stubbornly stood his ground.

The priest looked at him fiercely and said, “Don’t you want to go to heaven?”
“No,” said the man.

“Do you mean to stand there and tell me you don’t want to go to heaven when you die?”

“Of course I want to go to heaven when I die. I thought you were going now!”

This is from The Heart of the Enlightened, a book of spiritual stories by Anthony de Mello.

If this made you smile, you’ll find more stories like it in our curated collection of funny Anthony de Mello stories—short spiritual parables that disarm you with humor before the insight lands.

What is the Spiritual Message / Moral of the “Going to Heaven” Story?

This humorous tale holds within it profound spiritual lessons that speak to the essence of human nature and the journey of the soul. At its heart, it unveils the importance of sincerity and authenticity in our spiritual aspirations. The man’s response, though humorous, reflects a deeper truth about the nature of our desires and intentions. It prompts us to ponder whether our professed desires for spiritual elevation align with our actions and choices in the present moment. Are we truly committed to the path of spiritual growth, or are we merely paying lip service to lofty ideals without genuine conviction?

Furthermore, this story invites contemplation on the concept of readiness for spiritual enlightenment. The priest, symbolizing the guide or teacher on the spiritual journey, assumes that everyone is eager to embark on the path to heaven. However, the man’s unexpected response challenges this assumption, reminding us that readiness for spiritual transformation cannot be assumed based on external appearances. It raises the question: Are we truly prepared to embrace the spiritual journey, or are we held back by hidden doubts, fears, or attachments?

The humor inherent in the story serves as a gentle reminder not to take ourselves too seriously on the spiritual path. Amidst the solemnity often associated with matters of the spirit, this light-hearted exchange invites us to embrace a sense of humor and playfulness. It encourages us to approach our spiritual quest with a light heart and a willingness to laugh at ourselves, recognizing that humility and levity are essential companions on the journey.

Moreover, the story underscores the importance of discernment in our spiritual pursuits. The man’s refusal to blindly follow the priest’s directive reflects a spirit of critical thinking and independent judgment. It prompts us to question authority and tradition, urging us to discern the true nature of our spiritual aspirations and the paths we choose to follow. Are we blindly conforming to external expectations, or are we guided by inner wisdom and intuition on our quest for spiritual truth?

Additionally, the story highlights the role of courage in spiritual exploration. The man’s willingness to challenge the priest’s assumptions and assert his own truth demonstrates a courageous commitment to authenticity and self-awareness. It reminds us that the path to spiritual enlightenment often requires us to confront our fears, break free from societal norms, and boldly embrace our unique journey, even in the face of opposition or judgment from others.

Furthermore, the story serves as a gentle reminder of the unpredictability and mystery inherent in the spiritual journey. Just as the priest’s assumptions are overturned by the man’s unexpected response, so too are our preconceived notions often shattered by the twists and turns of our spiritual quest. It encourages us to embrace the uncertainty and embrace the unknown, trusting in the divine guidance that unfolds with each step of the journey.

In essence, this story invites us to reflect on the deeper truths that lie beneath the surface of our spiritual aspirations. It encourages us to cultivate sincerity, readiness, discernment, courage, and humility as we navigate the path to spiritual enlightenment. Ultimately, it reminds us that the journey of the soul is as unique and unpredictable as the individual who embarks upon it, and that true spiritual growth requires a willingness to embrace the full spectrum of human experience with an open heart and mind.

Personal Reflection Questions

Spiritual stories are an opportunity to reflect on your own life. Here are 10 questions you can use to go deeper with the teachings in this story:

1. How does this story challenge conventional expectations and assumptions about spirituality and religious devotion?
2. What does the man’s refusal to comply with the priest’s directive reveal about the nature of individual belief and autonomy?
3. In what ways does the interaction between the priest and the man reflect broader themes of authority, rebellion, and questioning of tradition?
4. How does humor serve as a vehicle for deeper insight and understanding in this story?
5. What does the man’s response teach us about the importance of sincerity and authenticity in our spiritual aspirations?
6. How might our own perceptions of heaven and the afterlife influence our interpretation of this story?
7. What role does courage play in the man’s decision to challenge the priest’s authority and assert his own truth?
8. How does this story invite us to reflect on the complexities and contradictions inherent in religious doctrine and belief systems?
9. In what ways does the setting of the pub versus the church symbolize contrasting facets of human nature and spirituality?
10. How does the unexpected twist in the story prompt us to reconsider our preconceived notions about spirituality, mortality, and the pursuit of enlightenment?