Heaven is for Real Deluxe Edition: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back

By Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent 

 

Todd Burpo details the account of his son's journey to Heaven and back again, after a traumatic visit at the hospital. Little Colton tells extraordinary details of both Heaven and his family. 

 

The book is a compelling narrative. The language is accessible, but very engaging. The book certainly challenged my ideas of heaven but... I found several inconsistencies in the text that make the story less reliable. It seems as though the author works to establish credibility almost to a fault. 

 

Example: “And he didn't even know the word halo. I don't know that he'd even even seen one, since our bedtime Bible stories and the Sunday school lessons at church are closely aligned with Scripture.” Yet, there is a picture of Colton dressed as an angel with what appears to be a halo on his head. 

 

Despite discrepancies like this, I was still challenged by the story. Particularly as Todd Burpo shares how his faith grew through the experiences of his son. Regardless of the total accuracy of the book, I was challenged to and sincere and childlike faith and humility.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Be the People by Carol M. Swain

"We the People must stand up and Be the People because we are ultimately responsible for our nation's future." - back cover

In Be the People Swain explains the foundations of our nation from a historical, religious perspective and also explores several moral issues that are hot topics in modern, American society. These include marriage, abortion, immigration and racism.

The title of the book immediately caught my attention and I thought I would jump right on board with Swain. Unfortunately, however, I did not. I consistently felt as though Swain was making bold statements without substantial support and, at times, drawing irrational conclusions (i.e. That, like Israel, America is a covenant nation with God).

While I didn't agree with everything she advocated, I am grateful to have read the book. My knowledge of current events has expanded and my ideas have been challenged, particularly in how our nation should address social issues and I have dogeared several pages for quick reference.

The Principle of the Path by Andy Stanley

"Direction, not intention, determines our destination" – pg. 14

Andy Stanley presents his readers with a something he has called the "Principle of the Path." It's a principle, because regardless of whether you believe it, it's true. I sum it up as, our decisions decide where we end up... even if you act like it isn't so.

Personally, I loved reading this book! It has validated my worldview. Within the past year, I have discovered the power of choice. And if I'm not willing to accept the consequences of that choice, I shouldn't make it. If I speed down the highway, I might get a ticket. If I'm not willing to accept that, I shouldn't speed. As I share this with conservative Christians, I often reach resistance. Many don't believe that the power of choice is compatible with the sovereignty of God, but Stanley reveals that Biblically this isn't true. And thank goodness of that! We need both Truth and truth...

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Update!

Well, I haven't forgotten about you... the book I requested was backordered and then life got busy. Who would have thought? Especially in the twenty-first century.

First up is Principle of the Path by Andy Stanley. Apt, as I am beginning a new leg of my personal life journey.