This is the true story of 4 year old Colton Burpo who took a quick trip to heaven as the result of a ruptured appendix. It is told by his Father, Pastor Todd Burpo using Colton's stories about what happened to him. I loved this book. I wasn't sure what to expect and I was a bit apprehensive about it after reading Embraced by the Light which I found to be self-serving and hard to believe. Embraced by the light had none of the warmth or in my opinion honesty that the Burpo family shared. I am a Christian and I believe in Heaven but every once in a while it is nice to hear about what it might be like. Colton Burpo painted a picture of heaven that is so lovely.
Being a Pastor Todd Burpo was able to cross reference Colton's insights with Bible verses and it was at times astonishing. It was also a bit ominous. I'm not sure I wanted to know that the battle rages on with Satan. Of course I know there is evil but thinking about Satan is scary.
Colton didn't sit down and tell his parents he visited heaven when he was sick. He shared his experience with his family in a very matter of fact and ordinary way. He would mention something while driving in the car or playing quietly on the floor.
He told his family things that he as a four year old never could have known. He met a great grandfather, a sister who was never born, and he met Jesus. What could be better than that? I was so happy when he told his family there were animals in heaven--I personally always thought there would be.
It is a quick read. It is sweet and life affirming. It is faith renewing and thought provoking. If you have a few hours, read it. At the very least it will put a smile on your face at the innocence of a child but maybe it might also help you sleep better knowing that Jesus is waiting for you in heaven.
