I believe the universe was created because of the big bang theory, and as we speak the universe is expanding beyond what we as human beings on this planet will ever see or learn. I don't believe that a higher being created all of this, or that we're gods children, because we are simply a very small part of the universe. I think a lot of religious people like to believe "God" has a very intricate plan, that is very well thought out. I don't see the universe as very well thought out, it's a very random and expansive place that is not meant for us to control.
Simply put... after life, heaven, hell are all tools created to keep us in control by men from many ages ago. It's fabrication that has been tinkered with time and time again by men who think they are all knowing and powerful. People are sheep, and a lot of people believe in heaven and hell because they are hammered at a very young age into thinking you must live a good life, you must live for a REASON otherwise you will be banished to hell. It's mind control, it's nothing more than dogs gathering sheep.
In this day and age, men like The President are the pen holders that create these tools and write the rules. They create fear to keep us in control and on their side. It's logical and realistic, but I know a lot of people are more optimistic than that. Everyone is entitled to believe what they wish.