EASTER 2014: Important new open discussion on this blog:
Heaven is for Real, the Akiane Prince of Peace, the ISA Mosaic and the Shroud of Turin
Also see:
- More on Akiane’s Jesus, Heaven is for Real and the Man in the Shroud
- Still More on Akiane’s Jesus, Heaven is for Real and the Man in the Shroud
There is a new, very popular visionary picture of Jesus that many think must be accurate. It is quite okay to be skeptical about such visions. Nonetheless, how it compares to the image on the Shroud of Turin might significantly impact how the public thinks about the authenticity of the shroud. Last week I received an email from a reader that threw me for a loop. She wrote:
I just finished reading “Heaven is for Real.” I am thinking that the Akiane Prince of Peace is very similar to the man in the Turin Shroud. STURP and now the Shroud Science Group with all its scientific books and journals cannot begin to match the power of this story. Four-year-old Colton Burpo left the hospital operating room and went [to] heaven where he saw Jesus. Later, he confirmed that Jesus looked like the Akiane Jesus. The Akiane Jesus looks like the Turin Shroud.
The Akiane Prince of Peace? The book, Heaven is for Real? A kid who saw Jesus in heaven during some sort of purported near-death experience (NDE)? Really? And does this visionary picture look like the man in the Shroud? It turns out that the book is a sensation. As of this past Sunday, it was the New York Time’s #1 Bestseller in Non-Fiction Paperbacks and the #2 Bestseller among all Non-Fiction including Digital. It is #2 at Amazon among all books where it has held a position in the top 100 bestsellers for 73 days. USA Today ranked it #2 among Non-Fiction books and #7 among all books on the market. The reviews from pundits are mixed. But among readers at Amazon, the reviews are quite different. Overall the book gets 4.5 out of 5 stars. For those who are suspicious about Amazon reviews, there are too many reviewers, at 373, to think this is stuffed voting. You need to understand a little bit about the book. Here is a description from the publisher:
A young boy emerges from life-saving surgery with remarkable stories of his visit to heaven. Heaven Is for Real is the true story of the four-year old son of a small town Nebraska pastor who during emergency surgery slips from consciousness and enters heaven. He survives and begins talking about being able to look down and see the doctor operating and his dad praying in the waiting room. The family didn’t know what to believe but soon the evidence was clear. Colton said he met his miscarried sister, whom no one had told him about, and his great grandfather who died 30 years before Colton was born, then shared impossible-to-know details about each. He describes the horse that only Jesus could ride, about how “reaaally big” God and his chair are, and how the Holy Spirit “shoots down power” from heaven to help us. . . .
I read it on a flight between New York and San Francisco this past weekend. The book is well written. It’s hard to not believe the story unless one assumes shameless co-conspirator fraud with a child. Maybe I should say that its hard to not believe the story is somewhat true. I just have too many problems with how well a young son’s memory (or imagination) fits his father’s very literalist interpretations of the Bible. Nor am I convinced about NDEs. Something seems wrong, yet I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book. But that’s not the point I want to make. Every now and then, throughout the last half of the book, Colton is shown different pictures of Jesus and asked if they are accurate depictions of what he remembers Jesus looked like. The authors never tell us which pictures Colton looked at. (I naturally wondered if the Shroud was one of them.) In the end Colton is shown an online picture. “Dad, that one’s right,” he exclaims. It is the Akiane portrait of Jesus. Akiane Kramarik seems to be a child visionary. Growing up in a home with an Atheist mother and a lapsed Catholic father, she apparently began having “divinely inspired visions,” which she translated into poetry and art. By age four (Colton’s age) she was painting and writing poetry. There can be no denying, at least, that she is a prodigy. She appeared on CNN, World News Tonight and the Oprah Winfrey Show. Forget that she is a child; her work is amazing. She was just eight-years-old when she painted Prince of Peace, her first portrait of Jesus. This is the painting Colton said was right. It is reproduced in the back of every copy of this best seller. (Click on “Read more,” below for a larger image) Stephen Kimble, a reader of the NowTHINK!About it blog, writes:
Having read many books on the near-death experience I find this one very special since it was from a 4 year old. What is very interesting to me is that Colton corroborates the Prince of Peace painting by Akiane Kramarik as the likeness of the face Jesus. I find that her painting bears a strong resemblance to the digital reconstruction from the Shroud of Turin as presented in “The Real Face of Jesus”, a History channel production.
Yes, I’m sure that such a popular image, if indeed many people think it is similar to the image of a man on the shroud, will have an impact on belief about the shroud. Nonetheless, the goal of the Shroud Science Group (as was the goal of STURP) is not to sway opinion. It’s purpose is to pursue the scientific and historical truth about the shroud, whatever it may be and wherever it may lead, and to disseminate that information in a responsible way. That said, I say go read the book and make up your own mind. I’m intrigued but not swayed. Then again, it took me five years to conclude that the Shroud of Turin was probably real. 
The Akiane looks like the St. Catherine Pantocrator with a new hair style.
On July 23 2009 I broke my neck in a swimming accident of the coast of New Jersey, I was slammed to the sand by a wave and knocked unconcsience, my lungs were full of sand/water and debris…my 12 year old son who I was boogie boarding with noticed my board but did not realize I was attached to it, he acted quickly and pulled me out by my feet, the first responder was an orthapedic surgeon, I was in a comma for 6 days…the reason I’m writing this is I have described in great detail of a man coming in my room, I was on my left side but felt his presence as he entered, I turned to see him and he responded…I saved your life…I put out my hand to thank him but never felt it…I will never forget his face and have described it in great detail to many people….I have never seen Akiane’s portrait of Jesus, but when I opened it I fell to my knees and began to cry…………
All I can say to that is Hallelujah and Amen. That is a beautiful, testimony. The elipses (…….) that you use at the end says it all. You have left your testimony as a witness, and it us up for people to decide whether to believe it or not.
I will say this, if the Lord is revealing Himself this way, my gosh, He is doing all He can to convince this generation before He comes back. Let’s live for Him with vigor, passion and conviction letting our lives shine for His glory.
wow thats amazing
Thank you for the testimony. I love hearing people talk about their experiences because it certainly helps my faith.
Thank you for sharing that, Joe. It was very, very, encouraging in many ways, not just the obvious one.
Best, Hayes
I grew up in a very mixed up confused home to say the least but my parents always pushed me into church and my dad insisted on keeping me in a Christian school ..I hated church from an early age and I really couldn’t stand the school either . I got kicked out twice the second time for selling drugs .. Always kept in mind my whole life for some odd reason I would use this Jesus /God if I was ever in a bind .. /911 . When I was 21 iwas at a party with about 50 people I didn’t know a lot of bad people . Got into a fight at least ten of them . They beat me to the point I said under my breath Jesus please have mercy on me don’t let me die cause they wont have mercy on me. I ended up with 4 stab wounds and 1 was an eighth of an inch from my lung. I’m going on 27 .. Now the fool says in his heart there is no God
Hey, Joe awesome testimony. Jesus is indeed in the healing business! How great is his love and mercy! I research alot of NDE’s & CDE’s (near death experiences & clinical death experiences) and love the testimonies because it smacks us with the reality of our after-life and its importance. Its sad many even so called christians still lack faith and unbelief when Jesus sends them back with their testimony. I do know there are counterfeits as Satan wants to bring confusion, but like the bible says you know the Truth by their fruit. I actually found an article in the papers in 2009 about your accident. I live in Pa not to far from you and would love to hear more of your experience. Did it change your life? Did it draw you closer to God, to Jesus?
About 15 years ago, I saw Jesus. I know, I know, but I did. It was not a NDE and I was just very scared, and saw Him appear. I could no longer stand on my feet, I fell to my knees, and I can’t tell the story without crying, even now. I saw an advertisement in a Christian magazine with this picture, but knew nothing of the book or story. I cut the picture out and put it on the refrigerator, and told my family that this is the closest replication of the Jesus that I met. One month later, I was given the book for Christmas and when I got to the story of Colton trying to find a picture of Jesus, and then saw the picture, I started to cry. Anyone who claims to have seen the risen Christ, all agree that this is a very accurate depiction of Him.
Tracy, it’s interesting that you said your experience wasn’t a NDE, but that you were very scared.
Years ago, my sister shared a true story that she experienced. She was on a church bus full of people. When the bus stopped to let the associate pastor exit, he walked in front of the idling bus— and was hit and killed by a car on the other side that he couldn’t see, and that couldn’t see him until it was too late. Of course, all the people on the bus were really shook up. Suddenly, a small child piped up loudly “I see Jesus!” His Mother asked, “Where? What is Jesus doing?” The little boy said, “He’s praying for the people on the bus.”
Jesus wasn’t needed there because of the Pastor— the Pastor was already safely in Heaven. Jesus was there for the people who remained here on earth, who were upset and frightened at what they couldn’t understand.
And isn’t it also interesting that here again, we have a case of a small child seeing Him.
Wow! I am in awe of your testimony Joe. Thank you for sharing this with everyone. I too believe that Jesus is doing everything HE can to convince the World that HE is real & for those of us that need to be saved, please repent in the name of the Father, the Son & of the Holy Spirit. Our Lord Jesus Christ loves us all & wants us to join HIM in HIS Kingdom of Heaven to have Everlasting Eternal Life. …The time to repent is NOW. Here is a prayer: “Father I believe that you sent Jesus for my sins. I have faith in HIS blood, that HE died for my sins & arose from the dead. I repent of all my sins, all my junk, all my trash. Jesus come into my heart now. Be Lord of my life. Thank you for saving me. In your precious name, Amen.
I lost my dad suddenly on dec. 22 2011 barely 4 weeks ago, i have been struggling with the loss so much , someone suggested this book “heaven is for real” i went yesterday and bought it, after finishing it tonight i feel so much better about my dads death and when i looked at the prince of peace picture i was captivated and a calmness over took me, yes i do believe the story colton has shared heaven is for real and i will again see my dad and grandparents as well!!!
Trish, I am so sorry about your (temporary) loss of your Dad. Just remember that one day, there will be no more tears & you will reunite with those who departed first, forever. I’ve lost my Dad, too. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May God keep you, and wrap His comforting arms around you as you dwell on the reality that your Dad is not “gone”; he’s just in a much better place!
God Bless You. It is so true. I truly believe you will see your father again. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, has the final say. You believe in Him and He will believe in you, too. A friend in Christ. Ann
Wow, that is awesome and glad He saved you!
Joe…what a blessing you have had. The ball is now in your court…Admitting our sinfulness, believing that Jesus died for our sins, inviting him into our lives as Lord and Savior, and accepting God’s forgiveness is what makes us real Christians. Have you ever said the sinner’s prayer? Here it is… “Dear God, I confess that I am a sinner and am sorry for all the wrongs that I have done and the sins that I have committed. I believe that your Son, Jesus Christ, died on the cross for my sins. Please forgive me and I invite you, Jesus, to come into my heart and life as my personal Lord and Savior. I commit and trust my life and way to you. Please forgive me, and give me the desire to be what you want me to be and to do what you want me to do. Thank for the greatest gift anyone could ever receive; that is for coming to earth and dying on the cross in my place to pay the just penalty for all my sins. Thank you, too, for your forgiveness and free pardon, for the gift of eternal life, and for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully in Jesus’ name, amen.”Here is a website to go to where you can get some very helpful guidlines…
http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php . God bless you ~ Michele
Thanks for that amazing testimony. I’ve just finished reading “Heaven is for Real” and very interested in your thoughts and those of the respondents to your post. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Joe, If you are still on this website, I would be very interested in chatting with you. I am writing a book on people who have experiences similar to yours. I feel this book will help many people going through a multitude of difficulties in their lives. These accounts of faith are very powerful and thank you for sharing. My email address is JHFricker@gmail.com. Thank you very much and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
wow. Amen to that.
joe, i am so touched with your testimony! Jesus Christ forever and God Bless…
I had a horrific car wreck on February 16, 1988. I was dead at the scene, revived by a police officer with CPR, died in the ambulance on the way to the hospital and died again on the operating table. I was in a coma for 2 l/2 weeks. I do not have any memories of my near-death experiences. Last year, my sister gave me Colton’s book. When I turned to the picture of Christ that Akiane had painted, I recognized Him!! I felt such peace. Overwhelming. Although I still have no memory of Heaven, I KNOW I met Jesus.
My 4 year old told me about a year ago that she has “friends” that fly. When I asked her to tell me about them, she told me that they fly down to earth (earf at the time she was 3, lol) She would always talk about them to me and to to them in front of me. There are 2 that she talks about alot, a male and a female. I never took her to church or school or a babysitter. So one day I was brushing her hair and she was talking to her “friend”, I allowed her to talk to her freely as I had brought this up to her doctor and I was told not to discourage her so I didnt. So anyway, I asked her, If your friend can fly and she has wings then she must know Jesus right? (by the way, both of her friends have names and when I researched the names they were of Hebrew decent). So my daughter whips her head around and tells me, Yeah! She know Jesus. So being that she was 3 and I never talked to her about him because I didnt think a 3 year old would be able to comprehend and at the time Jesus sadly wasnt the topic of our discussions. So I asked her who he was and she told me he was on wood. So I asked her why was he on wood and she told me because he saved the world. Long story short she could tell me everything in detail about he crucifixion from when he was beaten to when he “walked away” from his “cave”. She even describe how there was alot of blood. I cried for about a week after this. I felt like I was started to doubt in God and it makes me feel guilty that this had to happen for me to have faith. Now that she is a little older she can describe what happened. She still talks to her “friends” and tells me that she sometimes dreams of something and then it comes true. I asked her what she meant and she told me she had a dream about her friends and that they came true the next day. They took her to “Jesus’ world and thats where she met Jesus and was shown the story of Jesus’ crucifixion. One thing that stuck out about Jesus was that she says he has blue eyes. I would never try to exploit her in any way. I just know it has change my perception (and my families too) on everything. I dont doubt anyones story :)
That is a wonderful testimony Joe. God bless you.
I am just reading your post…I think it is amazing…God blessed you with a visitation of his son…That is so awesome…When I saw the portrait of Jesus, I too knew immediately it was Him, the one and only Son of God, who died for me on the cross…
Praise God
So…you saw Him?
A new believer myself in search of Jesus have myself always needed a face to a name. Joe, your story automatically but tears in my eyes. I have never gone through anything like what you did. On some level I’m jealous. However, Christmas 2012 it is today, I felt a draw and decided to start looking for the young artist who was able to put Jesus on a canvas. When I saw this site… I looked at His eyes and felt so warm and at peace about everything that I’ve ever gone through and everything I’m worried about. I appreciate your story.
I have been following the continually keeping up with the research on the Blessed Shroud – the living manifestation and reflection of our Christ. The latest book, of 2012, have even some staunch skeptics leaning to its authenticity. This has been of core interest to me, since my grandmother’s repeated daily narrative of what happened to her in 1938, in a NDE, while delivering a baby at an advanced age. She grew up in the depression, and never had modern day public book considerations. Back then, the scope to which you could communicate your accounts were more limited. However, simply to reveal the awestaking truth, she spoke of how she encountered an angel like figure on a hill that allowed her to look backwards to her earthly station or forward, and elect a choice. The experience was as real as the reality of every day conditions. She recanted this experience almost daily for over 40 years, so we know that its impression was that of real occurence. Also, I would recommend the book of Sr. Faustina’s life. She, being one the most recent saints of our century (during WWI in Poland), accounts her encounter with Jesus, and thereby put forth the Divine Chaplet of Mercy
to be prayed on the Feast of Mercy, the 1st Sunday after Easter, and for the sick and dying. Reading this saint’s lifestory and detailed diary will sow the initial seeds of profound interest on this topic.
Thank you for your story! I feel we have all been blessed to see the real face of Jesus/Yeshua. I believe in the picture the little girl painted, you have been blessed more than any of us will ever know. I pray to see his face, but till then, I will simply look to to Prince of Peace painting.
Wow,Joe.What a wonderful testimony!I do believe that this picture truly depicts what Christ actually looks like.I get chills every time I see it.
I have been looking for evidence of jesus, and have compared akianes photo( which i am thoroughly convinced that this is what jesus looks like) to the shroud of turin as well, and i noticed some differences for instance the long hair and the buldge in the nose( on the shroud), but our hair grows, and according to colton we are returned to our state of glory when we go to heaven. When jesus was resurrected he may have been set back to his mid twenties(who knows) when he had short hair. and when he was crucifeid had long hair. as for the buldge in the nose, he was brutally beaten and whipped so the buldge on the bridge of his nose may have been a swollen area.
In Heaven there is nio sickness or disease so that would explain why things are different in the shroud of turin.
Lets not forget his own apostles did not recognize him after he was resurrected. According to Luke 24:15-16 “…Jesus himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him.” Which leads one to believe that his appearance had changed from what they were used to seeing.
Glenn, Jesus did not allow the two on the road to Emmaneus to recognize him on the journey so that He could witness about Himself in all the scriptures. He put a veil on their eyes until He was finished. He still looks the same, albeit cleaned up, but still has the “marks” to show He was ALIVE!!
Hair that is wet is longer than dry hair so of course the shroud image would be longer. And you’re correct that the bump on the nose could be swelling.
the image on the shroud show a man who is CENTERED IN SATURN. That is is BODY TYPE. Whereas the Akiane painting is CLEARLY a Mercury-Saturn body type.
There are 7 BASIC body types, six of which merge into the one following in a never altering pattern. The seventh type can merge with ANY of the others. The idea of seven basic body types was one of the plot devices of a well known fairy tale, collected centuries ago by the Brothers Grimm. That story is Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.
Additionally, the names of these types, which correspond to the planets and heavenly bodies that name the days of the week are words that are already IN OUR LINGO. For example, there are Martial arts, a Mercurial disposition, a Jovial fellow, a Saturnine countenance, etc. etc.
Billy Crudup, Timothy Dalton, John Cusack are Mercury-Saturn types. Whereas Clint Eastwood, Sam Elliot and Brett Cullen are pure Saturn types.
Interestingly, Leonardo Da Vinci, based on his self portrait cartoon is clearly a Mars-Jovial type. How those two cuckoo clocks could have thought a Mars-Jovial looked like a Saturn is one for the ages.
Wow. A saturn centered type. What are you talking about?
wow, after reading your post, it’s really funny that you called someone else a “cuckoo clock” your post and findings are not established and sound utterly ridiculous.
What are you talking about..???? This has nothing to do with the article….
Okay, I /think/ William is saying that the muscle/bone structure of the face in the Shroud doesn’t match that of Akiane’s painting, but with all the obscure references, it’s kind of hard to tell. All my attempts to google the concept of seven planet-named body types bring up strange astrological treatises.
Akiane’s painting of Jesus Christ is almost identical to the face scientists constructed recently of Christ’s face in 3-D. See History Channel’s “The Real Face of Jesus?” It just aired Dec. 22, 2011.
In 3-D from the Shroud of Turin, I should add. New evidence has also shown that the body was hovering at the time of the “event” that made the image, so says Dame Isabel Piczek, a particle physicist, who realized that the body was not pressed against the ground or rock at the time the image was made, because the image of the body is perfect all the way around; and the cloth had to be stretched out and the body hovering at the time the image was created.
I can’t believe that person after person misses this. I saw Colton on numerous talk shows, and he repeatedly points proudly to where the “markers” were on Jesus’ palms and feet. He points to the centers of his palms and feet. Sorry to expose Colton’s lack of truthfulness, but Jesus was crucified in the WRISTS and HEELS of his feet to keep the body on the cross. Also, Moses and Elijah appeared to Jesus in the presence of the disciples John, James and Peter, and I’m quite sure they would’ve thought they were angels if they’d had wings. Jesus is now in His glorified state and looks nothing like He did on earth. Isaiah 53: 2 says “He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him” in his prophecy of the coming Messiah. Has anyone ever read John’s description of Jesus in the Book of Revelation? He was so glorious that John fell at His feet “as though dead.” Please read the Book of Revelation. And Colton’s great-grandfather had to ASK if he were Todd’s son–yet his unborn sister somehow KNEW she was his sister (?). There are so many discrepancies in this book alone much less discrepancies from the Word. And Colton’s pastor father says he’s convinced that God had to turn His face away from Jesus on the cross because he wouldn’t have been able to go through with it if He continued looking. How could a PASTOR be so blind? God turned His face away from Jesus on the cross because He had laid our sins on Jesus and poured out His wrath on Jesus. Jesus took our punishment for us, and that included God turning His face away from Jesus in our place. Also, Akiane admits she based that picture of Jesus on a carpenter who came to her house one day–she used a human model, but there’s Colton saying “Dad, that’s it.” And regarding Jesus supposedly refusing to give Colton a sword in heaven because it would be too dangerous; there IS no danger in heaven. The Burpos would do well to read what happened to Ananias and Sapphira in the Book of Acts when they lied to God. Don’t these people have any fear of God?
And all of us, myself included need to read more of the Bible; why is everyone so excited about what this child says and not what Jesus Himself said in the Gospels and people with firsthand knowledge like the disciples?
@Karen Reid: I agree with you about Colton Burpo and the markings of Christ not being on his wrists or heels. There were also other things in the book that made me question what kind of parents Colton had. Like imposing their entire family with a very sick child onto a friend for days instead of taking Colton directly to the hospital?? There were alot of questionable things in this book for me! But Ariane’s painting is the real deal for me!
I agree Karen. One thing also in the book that was off is when the father talked about the tithe. He’s a fraud or just plain ignorant of scriptures. https://www.facebook.com/groups/180373015021/
We are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 415) for those who are fond of quoting scripture.
We should be careful not to try to appear superior in our knowledge of scripture, or to use that knowledge to belittle others. If the book brings people to Christ, that is a good thing. The experience was related to the parents by their four year old child. Do you think it might be possible that, because he was four at the time, he embellished certain events, but that the basic story is true? You are seriously worried about him lying to God?
The parents are brave people who knew they would face criticism and ridicule, but their purpose was to help others and hopefully bring them to Christ.
Actually, Jesus WAS nailed through his hands and feet. He was to be as a sacrificial lamb, never having broken a bone. Because nailing through his wrists and heels would have broken bones, they changed it. That’s also why he was speared in the side, rather than having a hammer taken to his legs. Both these gestures were meant as insults, like the sign hung on the cross above him, but they fulfilled the prophecies nonetheless.
I enjoyed your blog post very much. I’m cautious about these things too.
There’s no way to truly know if the shroud of Turin is real, but it could be – and I hope it is. There are many things that are “almost” and it seems that God is not particularly concerned about providing concrete evidence.
They think they’ve found the site where Moses crossed the Red Sea, for example. But it’s been a heck of a time even documenting it much less proving it. (Upcoming Movie website is at: http://www.exodusconspiracy.com/ and the man who told me about it has his web page here: http://pinkoski.com/Articles/Red-Sea-Crossing.html)
Or, the continual frustration about almost finding Noah’s Ark but never quite. The only concrete “evidence” we are given is creation itself, the awesome evidence of Nature designed by a Creator.
In order to believe in God, we must have Faith. That’s always the bottom line. And for those who do have faith, God confirms it to each one individually so we know we’re not fools… but we can’t prove it. :D
Thank you again for a very nice blog article. Now I want to read the book.
“There are many things that are “almost” and it seems that God is not particularly concerned about providing concrete evidence.”
This is where Faith comes in. I completely agree that God reveals himself to those who believe and as for the revelations.
I was just thinking about faith today. I think God intentionally doesn’t give us absolute proof, with no angle of plausable deniablility. The scripture says “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” I guess he wants us to please Him. He always leaves a little tiny door open for doubt, if we choose to go there. He wants us to exercise our free will.
I Had a near death experience in the early 70’s. I had just finished reading this book “Heaven Is For Real”. I finished reading it at work on my breaks, and read about the painting of Akaine. I had Jesus meet me in the in between worlds. I never went to Heaven, but Jesus definietly saved me from Satan, so to speak. He greeted me with open arms,and without words, I had the choice of passing into Heaven, or returning to earhtly home, or maybe Christ was telling me it was not my time, but I was so very close to passing the threshold.A few months later, I was reading The National Enquirer, and in the back there was the ad section. I was just scanning thru there and I was stunned by one little ad. It was for The Shroud Of Turin, and had a small picture. It hit me like a ton of bricks! It was “THEE FACE OF CHRIST” that I had seen. I found the book very interesting,and I was very eager to check the painting out. When i found this website, i was really amazed that the “TRUTH PREVAILS”,I am hoping to send a message to Coltons father about my experience, and also about one of his comments. I have previously only told my brother, and a couple of other people about my experience.
For those of us who have not had a near-death experience, I always enjoy the “eye-witness” accounts and I do believe they’re absolutely real. Thank you for your comments, I appreciate it.
I just bought a copy of the book because I have a 3 year old son who has been saying some scary things and I’m looking for some explanations, I hope. My son was born 1 month early and was born with a diaphragmatic hernia. He had a hole in his diaphragm and had organs in his chest and not much of a left lung. They did not know this before he was born for some reason because they almost always catch before the baby is born. After he was born we were told only 50% of these babies live and if he made it through the next so many hours it increased his chances of survival. Well we made it to 3 days later and he had surgery to repair it, which again they didn’t know if he would survive and we went hour by hour again. My son is 3 years old now and has talked about things that he shouldn’t know about in our family. One day he told me my uncle was on the play phone to talk to me and called my uncle by name.This uncle died 5 years ago and my son is only 3, it brought me to tears because right then and there I realized how close we actually came to losing my son. My son had another surgery around 18 months because his muscle didn’t grow over the opening. He is 3 now and has always been very verbal for his age. The thing that scares me the most is, he talks about people in our house that he can see. I don’t know what to do about this. I am hoping to somehow get in touch with Colton’s father also. My son is a very special 3 year old that is wise beyond his years and I am anxious to see what he grows up to be because he truly touches people that meet him. He is very strong willed too, had he not, he probably wouldn’t be with us today. Please pray for his body to stay strong as he does have a small left long, chances of this recurring, and his chest caves in pretty bad which makes his heart close to his chest wall and will need more surgery some day. His left kidney is also up too high on the left side, but they are leaving it there. The Children’s Hospital in Peoria, IL is amazing, but God is awesome! We had people praying for him all over the U.S. God Bless You and others who have had similar experiences. I also have a brother that was in a coma for 3 days about 5 years ago and he sure has stories like this also, very amazing.
Guideposts has a magazine called… “Angels Magazine.” :) We especially enjoyed it when they first started publishing it about 5 years ago. It doesn’t seem to be quite the same caliber anymore altho it’s still a nice magazine. They told real-life stories of people who had seen or been helped by angels.
There were some stories about small children who could see and talk to their angels. This isn’t too unusual, apparently, especially if the child has been ill. I believe in one case the child was retarded. The stories were very sweet.
As your child gets older he will most likely outgrow the sensitivity that he has now. My nephew could see things when he was small, too, and he didn’t have any traumatic experiences. Well, yes he did come to think of it. They couldn’t get him to breathe when he was born. They very nearly lost mother AND child during delivery but everybody made it. I only found out about this recently. Apparently my brother, who was in the delivery room, was so traumatized he couldn’t tell us about it at the time.
Anyway… you probably don’t need to be concerned about your son, IMO. It’s because he is at such a tender age that he can see the things he does. Most likely he will grow out of it. I do think it indicates a very sensitive heart in your child, and I do pray that he continues to be sensitive to the Lord all his life.
Your story is quite an interesting one, and reminds me of my own experiences with one of my children, though not quite the same. Over the past several years I’ve had a spiritual war for my child that has brought me closer to the Lord and often on my knees. God has shown me much through it. I do believe, through observation, that children with some internal weaknesses, it seems, tend to be more spiritually awakened. I would like to advice you to draw very near to God through the scriptures so as to saturate the atmosphere of your home with His presence. Be careful not to allow the enemy to take advantage of your child’s unique gift. The scripture does often teach of the medians and spiritists in a negative sense. By adhering to the Word, you can discern through the experiences your child shares with you and you can also use them to draw your family nearer to the Lord Jesus. May Jesus bless you.
Your story has moved me alot! Thank you for sharing it, I will pray for your little boy. My brother is 4 and I can’t imagin losing him. I belive God has put these children on Earth to remind us to have faith as a little child, as Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.’ Mark 10:13-16
Amy,
I would love to add your child to a prayer list that I have been putting together, as well as document his story for a project God has begun to have me work on with my brothers and sisters in christ. The project will ultimately be made into a website centered prayer ministry where people can request prayer and follow up when it is answered, as well as churches will be able to share prayer lists… but most importantly that people will be able to watch videos and read stories of the true accounts of God’s miracles… God hasn’t revealed the entire purpose yet to me, but I believe that alot of it has to do with breaking down the division between demoninations and unifying the Body of Christ and to show people that we serve a very real, very loving God of salvation not of condemnation, who hears us and wants us to speak with him, who wants us to hear the truth, our future and above all who wants to heal us. Please email me (anyone else who God has healed or revealed himself to please send me an email too) … the project is focussing on New England right now, but I believe that God will make a place for the stories from accross the country and world also…. you can go to my facebook @ (http://www.newcreation517.com – it redirects to facebook until I am done with the cd for my music ministry…) or email me at bryan@statusentgroup.com
Thank you everyone to everyone who has shared their testimonies, I have truely felt blessed sitting here reading them all!!!! May HIS love prevail!
Bryan
Amy in Peoria, go to your Catholic diocese there and seek out those working for the cause of canonization for Archbishop Fulton Sheen from Peoria. They will introduce you and your son to an amazing saint!!!
i stumbled upon this book Heaven is for real and read it in 1.5 hours couldn’t put it down. Everyone i have shared the story with gets shivers….If they didn’t believe in Christ that wouldn’t happen. I just wrote a book called The anointing Of Mercy and everyone that has read it said they felt the anointing while reading it too. When God is present there is no faking it.the world who denied him will be shocked to see Jesus is for real. I have had to many experiences with God to know without a shadow of doubt…God is almighty the great i am “why does the world try so hard to hide God and everything he has done. thats the real question for These non believers.
the book is the best and praise God for Akianes photos i love all of them thank you so much may this book and painting be put into hands and computers with lightning speed till the whole world has a chance to see it amen
I agree with Susan Ortiz 100%….. God and Heaven are for REAL…. I have had many experiences of my own and have seen for my self that Heaven is REAL..
Also read the book…PADRE PIO OF PIETRICELENA, Italy.. as he also had the wounds of Christ on his body.
Just to gently correct all: none of you stumbled upon this book, God wanted you to read it.
I agree with you 100%
I totally agree with you! I was in Costco a week ago, and my daughter left me to go to the books section. I followed her there after finishing my stuff, and as I was heading to where she was standing, my eyes were caught staring at Heaven is for real book, did not hesitate a bit and put it on my cart!….. The book made me renewed my faith. I had shivers and cried a lot while reading it. I believed that Jesus led me to strengten my faith. ( We go to church regularly but I dont consider myself a devout Catholic. )
You just nailed it Scotty G…I know, I have been personally touched by Angels in an auto wreck…given visions at an early age to correct my sinful path…and then witnessed Jesus’ presence for 10 minutes the day after my salvation prayer, because I asked our Heavenly Father to show me a sign during my prayer of Salvation! Since 27 Feb 2010, I have witnessed healings and phenomenal answers to my prayers…and He had my sister send me both Todd Burpo and Akaine’s books…God knew how analytical I am, and boy did He verify that He is very real (Big Smile)! Read Luara Hildebrand’s “Unbroken” and give that to all of your friends that are on the fence about God, Jesus and Christianity!!!
Amen to all of you that Believe…from a close Friend of Jesus.
You are so very right.
I just received a sample of your book to my Kindle. Can’t wait to read it!
Amen. Susan, “Thank you so much.” Yes, Jesus is Real & HE is coming back one day. We need to be ready. …When I was 20 years old, I was in a really bad car accident. My car spun around 6 or 7 times on the interstate one night in 1991. I wasn’t driving fast (going about 35 mph off the ramp), it was raining that night, no lights were lit up on the ramp to the interstate. There was a car up ahead stalled, half on half off the merging lane, I didn’t see it. Any way, I hit that car so hard. An eyewitness said that my car was spinning in the opposite direction & that I was lucky that no other cars hit mine. The whole time my car was spinning, “I felt like I was being cradled like a baby, being protected.” “Wow. I had my seat belt on. My car was totaled. I managed to walk away without a scratch.” I knew at that very moment that I had been saved. I always thought that it was my dad (who had past away at age 29 from cancer, when I was nearly 2 yrs old) that had saved me. I know that he had a great deal to do with that. Ultimately, looking back, it was definitely GOD himself that saved me that night. Wow! I definitely BELIEVE in GOD. I know that HIS son Jesus Christ is coming back one day soon. We must all be ready.
Christie, a similar thing happened to me driving back home across state lines. I wasn’t speeding, but there was a mist falling, and the road was a bit wet. I lost control of my car as I came around a curve. My car left the road, hit the embankment and flipped. My car was totalled, but my airbag did not deploy. The only side of my car not smashed in was the drivers side! I remember my body not moving throughout the whole thing as if I were being held in place. I walked away from the wreck without a scratch. To top it off, the only witness was a retired ambulance dispatcher who was able to call in the wreck with all of the details. (My iPhone was unuseable, as it was covered in strawberry shake. Apparently, cup holders weren’t designed to be used upside down.). The next car to stop was one of her previous coworkers who stayed with me until the deputy arrived.
I would like to purchase a copy of the Shroud of Turin. Please send details.
I just finished reading “Heaven is for Real” which I received as a gift. My Dad became ill two weeks ago and died last week. I read parts of the book to him, as well as scripture, too. It helped me. When I read Colton’s account of Jesus’ “rainbow horse” I remembered in Revelation that Jesus will ride a white horse. If you take the colors of the rainbow on a wheel and turn it quickly, it becomes white! Maybe the white horse which John (author of Revelation and Jesus’ beloved disciple) saw appears in heaven as a rainbow horse! Just a thought.
That is a confirmation of my thoughts – all colors put together is white…
No it’s not. All colors put together becomes some muddy black color.
If it’s projected light, then it’s white; that’s why a prism separates white light into it’s base colors. With reflected light, black means the object is absorbing all light, so it reflects nothing.
Yeah, I knew that. :D Thank you for explaining it. I knew that light had something to do with all colors…
Like when the sun shines brightly through the moisture still in the air after it rains (acting as a prism) you get to see the beautiful colors of a rainbow :)
I am glad to find your blog here. I just read Heaven Is For Real, and also looked up Akiane’s painting. I immediately thought of the image of Jesus from the Lost 40 Days special that recently aired. To me the faces look the same! Especially Ray Downing’s picture, Jesus in Glory. Wow….very similar.
Last year in a low point of my life due to a back injury, I didn’t want to experience life anymore in that condition. In the middle of the night I had a vision that Jesus visited me. He held me in his arms, and said “You are more than a conqueror”. I said I know I am, the word says that. He said, “I need you to say it”. Another time I felt like someone was reading over my shoulder when I was reading the bible. It was hard to describe him. When I read the book “Heaven is for real” and saw the painting of Jesus, I had chills as I looked at it and said, I saw you! The painting was how he looked to me.
That’s right Darryl. He wants US to live the Word, not just read and know it. That’s why He needed YOU to SAY it…so continue to SPEAK it : “I am MORE than a conqueror!” and remember – You are blessed and highly favored, too!
Hi Darryl, I would be very interested in talking with you. I am writing a book about experiences similar to yours. I would greatly appreciate your help. Thank you and I hope to hear from you soon!
By the way, I am now healed and doing much better!
I am glad to hear you’re feeling better. Your vision is awesome, how God gave you strength and encouragement when you most needed it.
Thanks.
That is so cool to now what Jesus looks like!
I read “Heaven is for Real” twice and can’t wait to read it again. I just can’t get enough of it. It is powerful, amazing and I now have a clear picture of what heaven is like. While the Bible tells us all this, it took seeing heaven through a four year olds eye, that I truly beleive and so many questions were answered. I highly recommend this book for nonbelievers and believers. And the story of the pictures of Jesus that the little boy was shown and they never were just right, either the eyes or the hair wasn’t the Jesus he saw, but once he saw this picture painted by the little girl who also visited heaven, Prince of Peace, he said “yes, that is him”. The four year old convinced this 68 year old and truly made a believer (with no doubts, or questions). Read the book.
I had a death experience 48 years ago (at age 17) when no one was talking or writing about them. Only one Christian doctor believed what I told her about what I experienced, even though she had never heard of such a thing! I have not read any of the books about heaven before “Heaven is for Real” because I did not want to taint my memory. At the time, when I told what happened to me I was hospitalized and told I could never go back to live with my parents because I refused to change my story. I was told I must have been halucinating because my home was TOO religious!
However what Jesus told me came to pass. I never had an other another grandmal seisure after the one that put me into the hospital where my ministry started to survivors of sexual abuse. I have been ministering in that field every since. I also minister to very ill and dying people to ease their transition over to the after life.
The 1st thing I thought of when I was in heaven was: “heaven is really real” so all the things I had been taught in Sunday school are REAL! That is why I read this book. What he said about the colors and how he described Jesus matched what I remember except the MARKS were not in the palms of his hands but in Jesus wrists. This was hard for my mind to comprehend as the only pictures I had seen had scars in the palms of the hands. So I did a study on crucifiction and found out that the nails were placed in the wrist in order to hold the weight of the body.
I then went to the web sight to check out Akiane’s pictures. They are the closest I have ever seen to what I remember Jesus looked like when I saw Him. Our God is so faithful and loving to care for us the way He does. Praise Him for all the little glimpses into heaven that He gives people here on earth. They help to strengthen people’s faith.
you went to heaven? how! and you met jesus? then why didnt you make a book actaully i dont really know but you cud reply me by email my email is pantonfire123456@hotmail.co.uk
Thank you for sharing; I too had a near-death experience too long ago to be influenced by the media – 53 years ago. I was 2 1/2, and while most people may feel this is far too young to be really “aware” of anything, that’s not how it is when you’re experiencing it. I had the “tunnel” experience, and didn’t see Jesus, but could hear the whispers of many many people who had gone before me, though I couldn’t understand them; somehow I understood this. As I was about to go through I was told that I was free to do so, but if I did I could not come back. I responded, “I’m only 2 1/2, and have a lot of life to live.” Instantly I found myself suffocating; I had become tangled in the blankets at the foot of my bed, and I kicked and tore at them and finally freed myself.
Just then my mother came into the room, but she didn’t understand what had happened. I finally told her about ten years ago, and she was shocked. I remember it as if it happened yesterday.
If anyone doubts the validity of these experiences, no matter how grand they may seem, don’t underestimate them. There is life after this one, and the Lord’s Book will guide you there.
Vivian, I think there are probably many people now that would listen and hear your story. Have you thought about a book? Have you read “90 minutes in Heaven” by Don Piper? I was so in awe of his story and I could feel his passion and the intensity of the desire he had to describe Heaven; How our human minds just can’t comprehend or feel or find words to describe heaven!!!! I encourage you to read his book and I want to encourage you to tell your story to all who will hear. I would love to hear it in detail myself. If I never meet you or hear from you again on this side of Heaven, I will see you there!!! What a day that will be.!! Glory Hallelujah. Praise His Name; my Savior and Lord; JESUS CHRIST.
In March 1998 I had a life-changing dream in which Jesus confronted me face-to-face. In all my life I have never before or since dreamt of Jesus, and the dream was so vivid and remarkable I can recall it in detail to this day. I wrote about the vision in my journal a few weeks after having it, and for several days following, added additional insights and implications of the dream. Jesus had asked me “Where is the work I asked you to do?” In my dream I knew exactly what he meant but knew I had barely started it, and so I stalled, searching for excuses. But He went on, “You are the only one who can do this for me now. I’m counting on you.” There was no condemnation nor threat in His remarks. After processing the dream for some time I came to realize that the “work” He asked me to do was the essence of John 13:44 – “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” NIV. Like others I had found it easy to love those who are lovable and likable, but to love the “unlovely” is different. This dream convinced me He expects us to love ALL OTHERS just as He does. LOVE – that’s the work I had not finished for Him. When I read earlier postings to this blog I was amazed there were several that confirmed the image of the Jesus in my dream. I had told others at the time that Jesus in my dream did not look at all like the typical religious art we see of Him. Until I read “Heaven Is For Real” and saw Akiane’s Prince of Peace drawing, I had never seen a likeness of Jesus so close to my vision, and to the entries I had made about it in my journal. The vision of Christ and His message became for me an epiphany.
wow! I had been asking God what my purpose is in life… You answered it! To LOVE one another as I have loved you! to LOVE the un-lovely :) Thanks for sharing this!
As a fan of Bruce Marciano, who played the role of Jesus in the Matthew video (word for word from the Gospel of Matthew), and who is a born again Christian, I was quite surprised to see the strong resemblance of the Akiane painting, confirmed by Couton as what Jesus looked like and Bruce Marciano. Bruce is of Syrian and Italian descent, and his features are very similar to these images. The image of Jesus in the Matthew video was completely different from all other Jesus movies I have seen. Jesus is seen as a fun-loving, caring, reach-out-to-people kind of guy. The kind of guy I would want for a best friend to hang out with.
Concerning the Shroud’s carbon dating, it appears that the sample taken was mixed cotton and linen used to repair the damaged Shroud. This led to the the late date for the Shroud. Other evidence for the Shroud is in the words that are placed around the shroud, all coming from the first century. Wow, great stuff for believers!
I read today, in the Bible, that Nicodemus brought along 75 pounds of scented ointment to wrap the body in when he and Joseph of Arimethea put Christ’s body in the tomb. Seventy-five pounds of scented ointment, WOW that’s a lot.
I haven’t read up on the Shroud much but I have wondered if anybody took that into consideration when attempting to figure out how the image got transferred into the cloth. The ointment was made of myrhh and aloes. I would think it played a part.
It is a very amazing portrait! If you are interested, I have found Russ Breault’s – Shroud Encounter a very interesting number of videos about the Shroud and it’s verifiable truth. If you are interested the www. is below:
I find all these experiences so exciting, too!
Thanks. Russ is a very good friend. I very much like the work he is doing.
I am wondering why the face of Jesus is shaded? I have always felt that in Heaven there were no shadows just glorious light.
The Bible says in I Corinthians 13:12… “Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”
So, I would interpret the shadow to mean that we can’t possibly understand all of the glory of Jesus and heaven while we are yet on this side of the darkened glass, or the veil, or the darkness of death that separates us from God. This image is only a hint of what is to come.
I initially thought the same questions as BLancaster, very well put AnnieCee, thanks!!
Annie Cee, that makes sense. Thanks.
This is clearly a depiction of Him after His resurrection, the shading is really his wounded left side of his face. As he showed Himself to his apostles and family and friends before His ascending to His Father.
I WOULD LIKE TO PURCHASE A PRINT. COULD YOU PLEASE TELL WHERE AND HOW?
THANK YOU,
KAREN
I know it can be purchased at Wal-Mart and I’m sure you can find it a lot of other places. You can also get it on audio book.
It is wonderful and worth being shared!!!!!!!
I think Cookie means they want a print of the Jesus picture. Colton’s book is easy to find, yes at Walmart or all over. I believe that prints of the Jesus picture are only available at http://www.akiane.com and they’re a little bit expensive.
You can find a print of the picture at http://www.christianbook.com as well
You can go to any Christian Store..and they carry many beautiful pictures..The one I went to is named Christian Family store…That is were I found the picture of Jesus,by Akiana,they also carry the book on her life, and all her paintings, I found out about her 3yrs ago, on TBN Christian station..I was in awed by her..and have been interested by her ever since..I thought how blessed she had been to show the world what God gave to her,so she could show all of us…I just read the book on Heaven is for Real..What a book, I couldn’t believe, They found out about Akiana’s painting of Jesus,and Colton, said he was the one…How awesome is that for a boy his age to know the differents..in the face of our Lord…Bless all who read that book, or get to see Akiana’s paintings, for all her work is special..for that is what I believe God wanted her to do..so we could get a glimpes of Heaven and all the other work she has done….God Bless Colton on his experience with heaven and being able to tell us alittle bit about what he saw..it give us the faith we need ..for Jesus loves the children…I sure i’m glad i found this site.for all of this is so interesting to read,on what others have been through May all be Blessed and may we all meet one day..Thank you for listening ..I hope I was helpful You will love the picture of the Prince of Peace, for mine is in our Bedroom, I take it down to show others, who just love it..for it is so special..I do believe that is him also..that is why I bought it…I just love it so.. Marie..
When I read the story, I was moved by it. There were moments when I felt like crying because I was so overwhelmed with joy that this little boy met Jesus. But, after talking to my brother about the story, we had some questions and I would like to get feedback on them. Heaven is supposed to be a mystery to us here on Earth, so is God and Jesus and their work, so why do we know all of a sudden what He looks like?
Why are we so lucky today to know such details about Paradise? And most importanty, why is it being published for all to see?
My own opinion is that modern society has become very jaded and cynical, to the point where it’s hard for us to believe in spiritual things at all. People used to be much more superstitious and much more spiritual, in general. They believed in angels, gods and demons and often had these things all mixed up in their Christianity too. So people didn’t need much encouragement to imagine spiritual things.
But now, people have a difficult time believing that ANY of it is real. So I think the book helps to make heaven more relevant for a modern civilization. The book doesn’t say much beyond what we already know in the Bible. So scripturally the story seems to be very sound. But the way it’s presented brings all those things to life in a whole new way.
IMO, it’s a very encouraging testimony.
Very well stated Annie…God Loves all of us so much that He is reaching down to many of us to experience certain elements that He knows will reach many that are not a Christian or of a generation that doesn’t read much any more, as a picture tells a thousand stories! Todd Burpo verified the authenticity of Akaine’s painting of Jesus, thus verifying her work is a very real gift from God himself. Praise our Lord and Savior and help Jesus by becoming a fisher of men!
Because if your heart is already hard, then the testimony of a child will not move you. One of the recurring themes of that book is that God loves His children, and especially the non-adult variety. Burpo speculated on why, and settled on the fearless honesty. He noted that tact and guile are sort of brothers – one merciful, the other deceitful – and they come to accompany us at one point as we grow up.
A four year old has neither.
Another speculation made by Burpo is that the testimony of a four year old cuts through the academic analysis we’ve made of modern Christianity.
“Jesus had to die so that we could be with His Father.”
That was the boy’s summary of Christianity as he learned it in the three minutes he died and was in the presence of Christ.
I believe it’s the position of Christ that he could come down and allow the hard of heart to put their hands in his wounds and still they would not believe.
To have a pair of children testify to the exact likeness of Christ isn’t going to move anyone who cannot be moved. All it can do is comfort those who soldier on under the false apprehension that they are alone.
We’ve always had the Holy Spirit, who’s probably the Rodney Dangerfield of the Trinity. That the Spirit is there for us when we believe we cannot take another step in the faith is part of a promise He made to us – This is the exact place that the Holy Spirit found Todd Burpo as his son lay dying on a surgical table.
That He chose to allow that to manifest itself in children makes utter sense to me.
I believe that God, His Son, and the Holy Spirit is fully aware of the difficulty of what they have asked of us – to remain like a child, with all of a child’s naive credulity, while at the same time remain vigilant of those that would come proclaiming falsely that they are God.
A child, however, knows its parents.
The Burpo child said that the angels in Heaven carry swords, for the purpose of defending Heaven from demons. We walk in the world, where Satan is the prince of the air, unarmed, but for the Holy Spirit and the Will of God.
If you are moved by this child, and believe for yourself that what the child claims is scripturally consistent, then consider that the Word of God, in your case, has fallen on good soil.
The book was on the nightstand of my cousin’s cabin, where we met for a family reunion this last weekend. I picked it up and finished it four hours or so later. Just because Satan rules earth for now doesn’t mean that God has His hands tied behind his back.
God loves us, and wants us to love Him back. If God were a metaphysical certainty, our fealty to Him would be out of fear, not love. God is no rapist. There is no love without faith.
” All it can do is comfort those who soldier on under the false apprehension that they are alone.”
“God loves us, and wants us to love Him back. If God were a metaphysical certainty, our fealty to Him would be out of fear, not love. God is no rapist. There is no love without faith.”
Tobacconist, I appreciate your comments. Thank you.
because God cud had used the girl for a purpose for his work its what God does whenever soemone becomes born again but thats just liek thats not actaully his face btw jesus was considerd black cause he was very dark so jesus was black and adam and eve were both black but had special genes probably to the reason why theres so much differnet colurs of races in the world
You may be right… I think in heaven it won’t matter what skin color we have and I’m sure we’ll all be relieved that it’s not an issue. The Bible indicates that even the angels have various skin colors. Michael the Archangel has skin that shines like bronze or copper: how beautiful he must be!
Actually, Jesus was a Jew. Jews aren’t black. Tan maybe, but not black.And if I’m not mistaken, the reason we have different colors of skin and speak different languages is because of the Tower of Babel incident in Genesis.
The Bible does tell us all of this. Revelations explains Heaven….just like Colton and Alkane. The Bible also describes Jesus. The shrougd was left for us but only until computer technology were we able to pull the dimensions of blood from the cloth to make a full image. (Someone then could have never known the technology of today….to be able to view this.) More evidence that the time has come….that we have been told about in the Bible. Jesus will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead…….and his Kingdom will have no end. Spread Love and Truth from within….accept , forgive, and pray for us all. The Bible gives us DETAILS of this time…
For 2000 + years people have been waiting for Christ’s second coming. I believe; no, I am positive, that Jesus will return in my lifetime. I believe that He is trying to get Earth’s attention. As the atheists and non-believers and skeptics attempt to crush the Christian faith, more people of all ages and walks of life are having ‘close encounters’ with the one true God!
How wonderful for this little boy and for this young girl to have been chosen as instruments to deliver the information God wants delievered to the people of this earth. My mother died at the age of 50. I met her doctor in the hallway at the hospital and he said that she was declared legally dead and that ” somehow” she came back. Upon speaking to my mother of her experience she said very matter of factly that she met and talked to Jesus and made a deal with him. She told him if he would give her more time with her children she promised she would never touch another cigarette again. She never did and he gave her 13 more years with her children. My mother was very child-like, innocent, and kind-hearted. She was born and raised in a tiny little country town in Louisiana. I am grateful for his mercy and the additional time he gave us with our mother. I am elated for Colton and Akiane, these beautiful young spirits, they get to live their lives with this incredible knowledge knowing that God hand picked them to deliver his message. What a gift they have been given! May God and Jesus watch over both of them and their families. Thanks to both of their parents for having the courage to share these incredible stories with us. It has renewed my faith in everything that I know in my heart is true. “We are never alone.”
Lovingly,
Dianna Montez
because the end is near
I just finished reading “Heaven Is For Real” and have been introduced to the work of Akiane Kramarik. The book is amazing and Akiane appears to be a “wunderkind” prodigy. However, I have not yet had time to think through their messages. I, too, wondered if anyone had compared their portrait of Jesus with the Shroud of Turin.
One thing that disturbed me in Colton’s account of Jesus’ “markers” (wounds) was that he specified they were in the palms of His hands and not in his wrists (as in the Shroud). It is said that if they were in the palms the weight of His body would have ripped His hands loose from the cross (unless He were also tied with ropes, as you see in some pictures – but why would the Romans nail a victim AND tie him? I’ve got to do some research). On the other hand, if the nails were in the wrists (and the Greek language allows for the wrists to be considered part of the hands), the bones there would have held the weight of the body. Then again, maybe Colton wasn’t being as specific as the book seems to indicate?
Another thing that I would like more information on is that Colton said everyone in Heaven except Jesus had wings. I have always considered pictures of angels with wings as just the earth-bound artists’ symbolic attempt to convey to us that angels could fly. Also, the “It’s a Wonderful LIfe” thing about angels earning their wings is just a Hollywood plot device for “feel-good” shows. Colton, however, indicated that not only angels but also humans there have wings (and halos, too). On earth birds and airplanes need wings to provide lift from the wind, but why would they be needed in Heaven? I’m sure the Burpo family is getting a gazillion emails and letters, so I don’t have much hope of finding out from them at this point If they know. Of course, I’ll need to ask the Lord about all of this.
As for Akiane, her paintings are absolutely beautiful. I don’t know what to think about her message and I have no comment at this point. As a Christian, I did find it disturbing when I visited the gallery on her website that she is also painting other religious figures such as HIndus and talking about respecting our “religious crossroads” and everyone coming together in unity. While to most people that sounds very nice, I did have some reservations about it and I will not comment until I’ve had the oppoturinity to see what she is really saying.
I just wanted to share these thougts while I was here because they are things that need to be considered. Best wishes to all!
Yes, I was concerned about the universalism that seems to be creeping into her work. Although people think that a unified religion is a good idea, it doesn’t work out in practicality because the gods themselves don’t allow it. Each religion is somewhat exclusive, and some of them are extremely exclusive. You can’t be faithful to ANY religion if you embrace ALL of them.
Which is perhaps a good illustration of what Jesus said, “I would that you were hot or cold, but because you are lukewarm I will spit you out of my mouth.”
And Jesus also said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No man comes to the Father except by Me.” So Jesus himself made it clear that he doesn’t go for this unified religion stuff.
Also in I Timothy 2:5, “There is but one mediator between God and man: the man Christ Jesus.”
Yes, I’m concerned about Akiane. The humanist tendencies of athiesm seem to be creeping into what she believes.
Read Lynn (May30) Jesus really does love everyone–not only Christians and He expects us to do the same…that is hard…sometimes I feel a little self-righteous in the face of non-Christian religions but I know that is now how Jesus would have it..as he does love everyone…God has no favorites.
Do we believe God comprises all of these things?
http://christianity.about.com/od/biblefactsandlists/qt/biblefactsgod.htm
How can we accept God as Love, Light, Peace, alive, omnipresent, omnipotent, and omniscient AND exclusive, distant, divisive, judgmental, spiteful, and downright cruel?
God is Love. God is All That Is. God is Truth. God is alive. God is everything and always has been. One Love is all that exists. There is no separation from God. God lives and breathes everything in our world. Period.
Truth lives within us and can only be revealed through experience. Truth does not exist in any book, even one as historic and compelling as the Bible.
People think it is more tolerant to adopt a concept of God such as you describe but there are two serious flaws in what you say:
1. There is no separation from God —- Sin separates us from God. Anyone who has raised children can believe in the concept of original sin. Original sin needs to be acknowledged more than it is. People want to believe in the theoretical goodness of all mankind, but the world scene damns that theory within seconds.
2. Truth lives within us and can only be revealed through experience. —- TRUTH as you describe it means that truth can be anything we want it to be and truth can be individually customized to each experience. By this definition, there is no central truth.
I do think you’re right, that there’s no book that contains the entire Truth, not even the Bible. People who read the Bible for the words alone are possibly not going to end up with much, especially if they read it for the wrong reasons. The Bible is the inspired Word of God, but it’s not the complete Word. Even the Bible says that if everything about Jesus had been written, the world would not be able to contain the books. So there’s alot more Truth about Jesus than only what’s recorded in the Bible. But the Holy Bible is what God gave us, and apparently it’s enough Truth to get started with.
But if we REALLY want to know what TRUTH is, then we must know Jesus Christ personally. Jesus said that HE is the TRUTH. In other words, truth is not a moral concept… **** TRUTH is a PERSON.**** You must read the Bible with the goal of getting to know Jesus. PLUS, the Bible is only the launching pad because Jesus also sent the Holy Spirit to “guide us into all truth.”
If we leave Jesus out of our lives, we will never know Truth. It’s Jesus or nothing.
No man-made god ever did for us what Jesus did. That’s what the Shroud of Turin is about: the crucifixion AND the resurrection of Christ. He died, He was not a Victim, He did it by Choice, and He raised HIMSELF from the dead without anybody’s assistance. The Grave is empty, because Jesus LIVES. This is the basic Gospel. If we don’t believe in THIS Jesus, then we don’t believe in Him at all.
Jesus said that He is the ONLY way to the Father. Jesus said that HE is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Jesus is not tolerant of all religions, in fact Jesus is not tolerant of ANY religions. Jesus despised “religion” when He walked this earth and He insulted the Jewish religious leaders on many occasions. Jesus does not represent a religion formed by man AFTER he died. Jesus represents HIMSELF, the living GOD.
We must accept Jesus under HIS terms, or we have not accepted Him at all. In fact, we insult Him by lumping the Christ in with other gods who have never done anything for our salvation as Christ did.
The universal “god” is a lesser god… far, far, far less. Although on the surface the universal “god” appears to be more tolerant and gracious, this humanistic interpretation of a universal god has nothing whatsoever to offer us. The universal god has no basic form, no basic code of behavior… the universal god is just vapor. I think universalists might as well admit they are agnostics: it would be more honest than trying to portray that they believe something when actually, they don’t believe in anything.
I’m not trying to be harsh, just trying to cut out the nonsense because the vague, vaporous interpretation of a universal god is basically a copout. The gods do not allow it, and most importantly: Jesus Christ does not allow that interpretation of God.
Dear AnnieCee, please see post #187 below in reply to your Nov 4 post on this thread as my response did not associate here. With much love and blessings ..
Post number #187 is by A Grotta… are you A Grotta as well as Michele?
I think maybe we’re all missing the point. It isn’t about what religion we utilize. It’s about worshiping God. Who cares if we call him by different names. He knows who we’re talking to. I have a lot of trouble with the thought process where only Baptists will go to heaven (or Catholic, Jewish, etc.) I don’t think the details are the important part, the BELIEF is. We humans are the ones who created the rules in each religion, not God, otherwise there would only be one clear religion. What if our true purpose here is to overcome the separation?
I’ve often wondered (and maybe it’s supposed to be my message) what would happen if we could set a universal moment in time where all of us prayed together, all over the world, no matter what religious faith, to show our belief. I think it could be a pivotal moment.
So strange you mentioned that, because I too just looked at her gallery and over the years her paintings have become… something I do not like. One is entitled “The First” and she wants you to draw your own conclusions. I concluded that these were two teenagers fixing to have sex. It was a very good painting, don’t get me wrong… but after almost drooling over her Prince of Peace painting and then seeing “The First”, it just turned me off. I still want a Prince of Peace hanging in my living room, it just awes me.
I just stumbled upon this site after reading Heaven is for Real and then googling Akiane as a result. I also had the same reaction at first to that painting titled “The First.” It bothered me as well and turned me off. Then I thought about it some more with a different perspective. For one, yes, they look like a young couple, perhaps teenagers, or they could also be in their young 20’s – either way, I questioned “perhaps they are just married and it was their first union?” God does condone and encourage sex after marriage and it is a beautiful union. Whether she meant the painting to portray that or not, I do not know. She left it up for all of us to create our own story – as adults and humans, sadly our thoughts will wander first to the worst…but maybe that is not how this painting is. Or maybe it points out to us how negative we can be in general and maybe we should think good, heavenly thoughts first instead. Again, I don’t know how she meant it. It is just a different perspective to consider – and it is the one I am choosing to accept :)
WIth that said, I have only just started looking at her gallery on her site. Someone on here mentioned how she seems to be too universal in her thoughts on other religions and wanting them all to come together. That would bother me too, since I believe that Christ is the only way. However, I have not thoroughly gone through her gallery to come to my own conclusions on her beliefs. Regardless, I do believe that God has given this child a wonderful gift and He is using her for His purpose in some of her paintings. We are all human however and therefore not perfect. I believe this child should be prayed for that she does understand that Christ is the only way – and that she will be protected from once atheist beliefs, etc.
I have to say that the minute I laid eyes on ‘The First’ painting, the immediate thought that came to mind was “Adam and Eve”. Then I noticed that the painting was called ‘The First’ and I thought “Yes, the first couple!” Just shows how each of us see things from different perspectives. I have to admit though that some of the paintings bother me and I really pray that Akiane’s gift will not be tainted by the world, but that she will use it solely to glorify God.
Maybe “The First” is Adam and Eve, the first couple?
I thought of it as Adam and Eve in the Garden, the first Man and the first Woman, the first Couple, the first union of Man and Woman, the first Parents. Why would that be dark or in any way obscene?
Akiane is fallible and fallen, just like all of us are. She is capable of falling into sin, being decieved, and leading others astray, just as all of us are.
You sounded like a very thorough person. I, too, had similar reservations about Colton’s descriptions. As for your comment about everyone coming together, I subscribe to the idea that there are many paths to God and Jesus is just one way. That is, God sent different prophets for different circumstances in order to lead people of time to Him. Please consider the suggestion and don’t feel offended. God bless.
Jesus himself said “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father BUT BY ME”. If you look closely at all religions you will see how they contradict each other. For example, Christianity says you have to accept the free gift of salvation through Jesus by trusting and walking with Him rather than trying in vain to earn your way to Heaven by somehow being “good enough” (which is impossible because we have all fallen short multiple times). Nearly every other religion says that you have to do A B and C to hopefully earn your way in. Chip Ingram (pastor of Venture Christian Church in Los Gatos, CA ) wonderfully putts it this way: all other religions are about having to “do” something, whereas the truth of Jesus is that it has already been “done” for you… you just have to choose to receive it from Him. So in conclusion, all religions don’t lead to God. Only Jesus does. The rest of them are tools of Satan to lead you astray and straight to Hell.
middle eastern the man named jesus was, but blue eyes???????
Well, before he was middle-eastern he was God, the Son of God, and the Word who created this planet and this universe. IMO, it’s not surprising that he’s very unique in his appearance. :)
HE is resurrected! Did the apostles on the way to Emmaus recognize HIM? No, because He had been GLORIFIED! Maybe that is why his eyes are so blue-green … very unusual color world for eyes … they are usually either green or blue — not this gorgeous blue-green! I don’t care what color eyes He has, as long as HE is looking at me when I close my eyes in this life!
Jesus parents were from Bethlehem, a city of the tribe of Benjamin. The members of the tribe of Judah were not “Middle Easterners”, but of the tribe of Israel. I believe there are adequate descriptions of the various tribes from that time to say that Red Hair, ruddy complexions, blonde hair, green eyes, and blue eyes were very common in the small towns where the Idumeans and foriegn born people had not yet become prevalent.
People, for some reason, always seemed to get confused when it comes to “Middle Easterners.” If you look at the Jewish person you work with, what does he/she look like? Look at Barbara Streisand, for instance. Most of the time, they do not look like the darker Syrians, Iranians, etc., the more “Arab” look. They tend to look more European. Also, Jesus was half man, half God. That leaves room open to have green eyes.
hi friend peter clarke.
when Jesus came to me in my room and captured my gaze with His, His eyes were flickering blue like sapphire but with lots of light. i felt like i was looking into a tunnel of eternity in his eyes. it was almost 5 years later when i finally asked him about His eyes and He revealed to me that they were fire… and when that puzzled me, He said they are the hottest flame. I posted the whole story just this week if you scroll down.
They look emerald green to me. I don’t see any blue-green, just green. I am SO enjoying reading all the replies to this article!!!
YES my grandmother was 100% GREEK and she had BLUE EYES and blond (dark blond) hair so SHE was of middle eastern descent and quite frankly she and her son (my dad) were LIGHTER skinned and had lighter eyes and hair than my mother who is Swedish/English (who has black hair and black eyes). SO yes Mr. Clarke don’t let the eyes throw you off. Don’t forget also, if you’re going to believe in an all powerful creator of the universe, aka GOD, aka Jehova, then you really shouldn’t limit Him in your mind. He can do anything. Check out a movie called “Faith like Potatoes”…..that is a great movie about God being able to do anything and when He does “anything” He does it however he wants and not necesisarily by human standards or according to the laws of physics (try studying quantum physics if you think everything has to go by those standards, i.e., the “laws of physics”). God bless you in your journey and also check out a show on the Bio channel called “I survived; beyond and back” which is all about Near Death Experiences. Emily
Jesus was Davids son, David was a descendant of Leah (Judah)…Leah had weak = blue eyes! (the hebrew word translated: weak, tender etc, can mean blue…and what, in a hot countrey, where most people have a dark compelxion and brown eyes…is nearer than to descriebe blue eyes, who don´t tolerate the sun..as weak..)
David seems to have been blond and blue-eyed…
I now know why there is an Internet service called Stumble Upon because I just stumbled upon all this.
Right now I’m just taking it all in. I will say that when I saw the Jesus portrait above I was emotionally overcome.
I’m a 67 year old cradle to grave Christian. No other portrait of anyone has ever had this kind of impact on me. Now I’ve got to see and read more, however, I have always believed in the Shroud of Turin since I first read of it in the sixties.
I am a university educated man but not a scientist. I’ve always thought something, perhaps supernatural, happened at the instant of resurrection that imprinted the negative of Jesus onto the shroud. But then what about an intense flash of light? Something like that would be natural. How about it, any physicists reading this; what do you think?
Hi Kent, we’re really slow giving you a reply, but then again maybe not BECAUSE – since you asked this question – there has been a new published report about this very thing. I don’t know the details very well. But there are Shroud experts who could tell you the smallest details about it.
I believe the study was done in Italy and they did experiments with intense light on linen and they got results that were encouraging. And, it would have been impossible for such a method to have been applied to the linen during the time that Christ was here on earth: no such technology existed. So this indicates (possibly, hopefully, AWESOMELY) that the image must have been applied supernaturally.
If you’re interested in all this, catch up with the fellas at the top of the blog (the daily posts) and they’ll be glad to steer you around all the fascinating facts about the Shroud. :)
Yes, Peter, I perceived the Lord at Camp Wesley Pines at age forty, and he did have blue eyes.
WOW! So now that explains why Kenny Loggins has such a BIG ego! :> (just kidding….I believe in Christ, and that he IS the son of God, AND THE ONLY WAY TO HEAVEN!) So….all kidding aside…read the verse in Romans where Jesus says “I am the way, the TRUTH and the light….no one gets to the Father but by way of me”….
T-T, The verse you quote is actually in John 14:6.
I read the book too and believe all of it, but I too have some questions. If Colton’s little sister knew him and everyone in heaven knows their loved ones, why did Pop ask Colton if he was Eric’s son before telling him he was his great grandfather? Or did I misread that?
IMO, it’s best not to get hung up on details because the story comes from a 3 year old who may have muddled some things in his mind. He related the story to his parents, over a period of two years or more. So many things could have influenced the clarity of the vision by that time.
The gist of it is: apparently he really did have a near death experience and there are some things that are particularly impressed on him that he was very strong about. First of all, Jesus really really loves children. And second, we must know Jesus when we die. Third, Colton wants everyone to know that heaven is for real.
These things are scriptural and if this is the main message of Colton’s story it’s a really good story.
Colton’s book is not the Bible, it’s not scripture. So I don’t think it needs to be gone over with a fine tooth comb for accuracy. But I do think God has used this story for good purposes.
For example: Jesus loves the children. I’m trying to help orphans in Haiti and I can’t get anybody to care about the orphanage I’ve been assisting. Not even my own family. People are so indifferent now-a-days. I really understand Jesus’ frustration with the church of Laodicea, they could not be MOVED to care about anything. There are children starving and abused all over the world. Maybe Jesus wants to stir up compassion for these little ones who do not deserve the suffering they’ve been born into. IMO, we should not ignore Colton’s message about the children.
AnnieCee, I will help with your Haiti orphans. How do I contact you?
David
David Rego, I just now saw your post. You can contact me through the website at
http://www.http://bonsecours-orphans.com
The contact form goes to me.
I’ve been praying for help. It seems it’s very difficult to move people’s hearts these days. I’m not sure why, sometimes I wonder if this is the Church of Laodicea manifest on the earth. Thank you for inquiring.
A six year old with what seems like the entire world’s hurt pressing in his eyes screams at the top of his lungs to a classmate, “You suck, you stupid asshole!”
I am weary. It is 2 days before winter break, and all I wish to do is finish the pile of assessments before me. Assessments that must be done one-to-one with each child, assessments the outcomes of which will soon determine my salary, assessments which completely dishonor/undermine the tireless work the children and I trudge through daily. I drag myself towards him and a chair slams to the floor. The other children barely look up from their work this has become such a common occurrence.
I reach Joshua and pick him up. He continues to kick and scream nailing my shins several times, but does not fight hard enough to give the impression of really wanting to be let go. In seconds, he is sobbing from deep within his being. I sit down and rest his head on my lap and whisper a prayer in his ear ending with the song, remember little one, Joshua fought the battle of Jericho, Jericho, Jericho.
I then look up then to see if the other children are still working and catch Evelyn’s deep, sad, and knowing eyes, in hers I see wisdom, too much wisdom for yet another six year old. She only a week ago came to me brimming with tears. We had to hide in the bathroom last night. My Dad was hurting my Mom. She has to stay in the hospital now.
I work up a smile for Evelyn, and she nods smiling herself and goes back to helping little Sandra learn English.
Jesus really loves the children, but I am terrified that I cannot keep on loving them as he does…
Hi AnnieCee. I tried to get to your website, but encountered problems. Please try it yourself. God bless.
Do you have a better way for him to introduce himself?
Have you ever asked a child a question you knew the answer to? I have.
“Heaven is for real” is an awesome book. I would most definitly recommend to anyone and everyone to read. I have recommended it to friends and family. I believe Colton and the journey he has shared with the world. God bless you all & take care.
I’ve read the book Heaven Is For Real several times! I believe every word, comma, apostrophe, exclamation point, and period in the book! I also believe Jesus uses children to make us see Him in true FAITH – the FAITH of a CHILD! Akiane’s painting Prince of Peace is wonderful, and I know this is what the JESUS I will see when I close my eyes in this life and open them in the next life will look EXACTLY like this! Remember… “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man can imagined, is what God has prepared for those who love Him” 1 Corinthians 2:9
Believe in that Rainbow Horse – you’ll see it if you BELIEVE IN HIM!
Kayceen, I’ve heard this verse preached many times. But they stop there! Read the next verse! But He has revealed them to us by His spirit… God is using many who are sharing what they have seen and heard in the spirit to provoke faith in Jesus.
Let me tell you, in 1990 I was “out” for 9 minutes without oxygen during a surgery accident.
I can certainly say that heaven is real, that what this boy saw is very accurate. I would not doubt it one minute. My experience still causes my tears to appear with no way of holding them back. I was simply told I have to return back but I replied that I don’t want to, but the way was blocked. I could hear the doctors talking with the anesthesiologist -every word. The Dr. was amazed later that I was not cognitively impaired. It was simple: there were about 2-300 kids praying for me as I was a youth group leader.
Every day I am looking to go back to heaven. I just can hardly wait. Why did God make me come back? Was it because He wanted some specific unfinished work for me to be involved with?
Please, if you have any chance to be ready for your death, check out what you wish to do about it, and what you think about Jesus Christ. You may not have a second chance.
I have to say I am so terrified of death it isn’t funny and am terrified of God. I am Cahtolic an my life hasn’t been so great and pray it changes but I had to read this book. I was so interested in NDE’s just to see what people saw. Alot of my prayers arn’t answered but that book aslo gave me the chills and I’m not so afraid. First of all, if that is what Jesus looks like then he is one gorgeous looking man and I woudn’t be afraid. I would aslo love to see the Virgin Mary. The only thing is how do people move around. Do they have just part of a body and no legs? I think Colton said they floated which is kind of different. Theres so many questions and I really hope that is where my animals are. They are my babies. I would love to have Jesus come to me and see his face in a dream. Knowing how terrified of death I am I would think he would just to put my mind to rest. I always pray for what I am meant to do and what my purpose is but no answers. I really do love this book though and I have some questions to but like someone said thet are probably overwhelmed with all of this. But get this book everyone! It gave me goose pimples and I plan on reading it again. I hope everyone has their prayers answered. It not such a terrible world right now and God bless Colton!
It’s natural to fear the unknown but that fear can disappear as you look to the reality of what it means to leave this place and go on to heaven. It means you get Jesus. You get to be with HIM. HE is our destiny. HE is our hope and the love of our life. Cultivate THAT relationship, KNOW HIM and you will no longer fear death. Spend time with HIM in prayer and reading HIS WORD. Mother Teresa was a great example of devotion to Jesus. She constantly directed others to look to Him, seek Him. Jesus tells us to “Love the Lord Your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, with all your strength.” And He continues with, “Love others as you love yourself.” Just focus your energies on Him.
Jane,
I had a near death experience on 7/24/2009, I broke me neck in a swimming accident and was in a comma for 6 days. When I awoke with my wife next to me I asked who the bearded man was, he told me he saved my life, she said their is no one here that has a beard. Two years went by and I read Heaven is for Real when I came accross Akiane’s portrait of Jesus I fell to my knees and began to cry. If I can only give you a fraction of the courage I have for dying it would change your life. In a weird way I’m looking forward to it…and I have a beautiful wife three children and just about everything I always dreamed of….For some reason God gave me this gift…be not afraid
Amen Jane.
I share your fear of death. My fear originated about 55 years ago when I realized that I would die some day. I have found life so beautiful and awe some that not feeling it would be the ultimate dread. No, I do not come from a priviledged background, in fact I would consider our family as a poor working class, but over the years we worked hard and had our share of trials and tribulations. Today, I consider ourselves blessed with healthy and independent children and their families.
My struggle against my fear has led me to reading many books, medications, and counselling and ultimately to baptism into the Catholic faith. Being retired for the last 9 years, I have a lot of time thinking about God, death, etc. My conclusion is that if there is no God, then life is meaningless. God has 100% of my heart and about 80% of my mind. I desparately seek closure on this fear, so I can fully appreciate life and let it go gracefully.
I pray very often these days that God would send some “agent” or event that would put my mind to rest. This is the reason that read posts such as these – to find new ways of reaching God or better still, have God reaching me.
I would appreciate any suggestion that would remove my residual doubt. God bless everyone.
Senior 110 I like you and Jane and many others fear death,why, because it is the unknown, and I am a sinner and knowing this I fear God and that fear is that God will not forgive me…I Pray He will in the Name of Jesus, just as I Pray He will forgive others who seek His forgiveness and Love. As I age I see the many Blessings God bestowed on me for which I did not dutifully did not Thank Him. I Pray my heart is true for Him, even though my mind gets out of whack at times. I Pray also for the world which has fallen from grace, Continue to Pray and read and I will Pray you find PEACE. Sometime Prayer a simple heartfelt honest Prayer will ease a troubled heart and mind
WOW, so much fear, I had no idea but I feel compelled to give you reassurance as i did with Jane. Please accept my copy and paste of my response to Jane as it applies to you as well dear Senior!
I felt your fear and I had to respond. Please believe me when I tell you, dying, for your consciousness which is in your SOUL is nothing but a breath… I can’t speak to what physical condition you may be in at the hour of your passing, but as for your “heart”, your “mind”, your soul, it is SO easy! You will surely laugh to yourself and say, “Are you kidding me? This is what dying is?” Seriously, it is easier than opening your eyes or taking a breath! DO NOT fear your physical death because LIFE is all about your spirit! That lovely vessel your soul resides in is just a body of flesh and is nothing more than a glove or sock you’ve worn all your physical life, that’s all. TRUST me, I have left my body and come back. It is NOTHING, and so easy, it’s the coming back into your body (if that is the plan) that is slightly uncomfortable.
God loves you dear one, trust in God, PRAY PRAY PRAY, you will have a whole crowd of loved ones waiting at your passing just to welcome you HOME and into the arms of Jesus. Heaven will no doubt be all we have been told and thousands and ten thousands fold more<3 I will see you there one day too! Look for me and tell me how right I was and then we will both laugh together! God Bless and have no fear dear friend in Christ.
I also had feared death, but not for the pain or scariness of it, because I had already left my body before, but I had been worried I may not have enough time on earth because I too LOVE this BEAUTIFUL and amazing creation of Earth that our heavenly Father has given us, and I also LOVE my family and friends with a passion that could only come from God Himself. I often have to ask God to not take offense at my requests to live a long (100+yr) life just so I can see it all and love as many people as I can. BUT death, where is thy sting? There isn't any, as long as you are right with God that is. I would never lie to anyone about this, passing on to the next dimension is a wonderful amazing experience and no wonder those who have did NOT wish to come back, even when they had a good life or loved ones still here, it's THAT good! NO FEARS, only LOVE.
God Bless you my friend in Christ <3<3<3
I
Last night I had a dream. Jesus whispered to me, “Fear motivates us”. I tried to apply it my life, but it makes more sense to apply it to yours.
Jane, I felt your fear and I had to respond. Please believe me when I tell you, dying, for your consciousness which is in your SOUL is nothing but a breath… I can’t speak to what physical condition you may be in at the hour of your passing, but as for your “heart”, your “mind”, your soul, it is SO easy! You will surely laugh to yourself and say, “Are you kidding me? This is what dying is?” Seriously, it is easier than opening your eyes or taking a breath! DO NOT fear your physical death because LIFE is all about your spirit! That lovely vessel your soul resides in is just a body of flesh and is nothing more than a glove or sock you’ve worn all your physical life, that’s all. TRUST me, I have left my body and come back. It is NOTHING, and so easy, it’s the coming back into your body (if that is the plan) that is slightly uncomfortable. God loves you dear one, trust in God, PRAY PRAY PRAY, you will have a whole crowd of loved ones waiting at your passing just to welcome you HOME and into the arms of Jesus. Heaven will no doubt be all we have been told and thousands and ten thousands fold more<3 I will see you there one day too! Look for me and tell me how right I was and then we will both laugh together! God Bless and have no fear dear Jane<3
Hi Jane. Sounds like you need reassurance. Accept Jesus as your personal lord and Saviour, and you don’t have to experience fear of death and God anymore. God loves you and wants his best for you. Also, we are created in the image of God, we will still be able to recognize each other, but be in spirit form. Also, I had a vision that my dogs were playing in heaven (ones that passed on). God has a plan for you, accept him and he will guide you.
Jane just consider how very much you love your animals (“they are my babies”.) Then consider the love you have for them magnified infinitely greater…..and you will begin to grasp the love that God the Creator of all life has for you. As for answered prayers, in Matthew 6:8 God “…knows what you need before you ask Him.” Personally I have found writing in a journal helps me make important life decisions, and to learn what God wants for me of my life and purpose. There are several great books out there, among them “Journaling As A Spiritual Practice: Encountering God Through Attentive Writing” by Helen Cepero, and “Love Letters to God: Deeper Intimacy Through Written Prayer” by Lynn Morrissey. Don’t by terrified of God – be terrified of life here on earth and after death WITHOUT God. Matthew 7:7 “…seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
To Lynne, beautiful points you made for Jane! I look back over my life and I can see where I have had the most fear and depressions and they were ALWAYS when I was NOT praying as much as I should. YES we are to PRAY PRAY PRAY, it is said the Virgin Mary when she appears to anyone she often reminds us to do so. How’s THAT coming from a non Catholic? Oh yes, Lutherans LOVE the Virgin Mary TOO despite what some folks may say :P seriously, the mother of Jesus? I just hope she loves ME! Haha, I joke, but we are all so serious here (and rightfully so) but God gave me the giggles too, so out of pure happiness I kid around. But ya, good points about how Jane loves her animals… I too pray our pets have souls (they certainly possess energy) and that God fancies them enough to give them life after death. But I don’t know for sure and so I only hope.
God Bless all you dear ones<3<3<3
My mom, niece and myself loved Heaven is for Real. I looked up Akiane Kramarik on the internet and found her artwork and poetry – there is a picture of Mary that is just beautiful, Jane! Check it out. I’ll be praying for you and hope to see you in Heaven! I think we’ll both like it!
What a good little book! I will donate my copy to my local library. This morning I was sitting on my back porch. I looked at the beautiful blue sky and thought, “YES, God is everywhere present!”. (From Chapter 18)
wow this is great to read. colton story sounds a lot like the ones i have had. i have been really sick over the last 5 years and the Lord has been so faithful.
it’s all real.
i am blessed to have read this book
Anyone who reads this book is blessed. While the Bible was written many years ago, I did believe it, BUT having read this little one’s account, someone who had no prior knowledge, so you knew it wasn’t dreams, you know without a doubt that even the Bible is for real. Nothing has touched me like this book did. I cannot talk nor describe the book to anyone without gettting chills. I read the book 3 times and have listened to it once. I just can’t get enough. I have recommended and gotten the book for so many people and it has touched them all.
Colton and his dad are truly God’s angels for sharing this with us.
I agree. I read it twice in a week, and re-read some favorite sections. I basically memorized it! Such wonderful confirmation of what God has planned for those who love him.
Recently I saw this video of a man who had a near-death experience, and I have thought about his story a lot. It’s very compelling:
Hi Judy,
I totally agree with you. I loved the book and bought the
children’s version for my beloved granddaughter.
Beth, Jesus paid the price for your healing as well as salvation. Psalm 103, 1 Peter 2:24, Isaiah 53:4-5, Matthew 8:17.
does the book change how we live after we read it? or do we just read another book?
i’m pointing at me and i know it takes Jesus changing me (us) but how willing are we (am I)
I think so. I think Christians (including myself) need to be more heavenly minded, that our rewards are not in this life but in the next. The reality of heaven changes our perspective considerably.
The book does give some examples of people whose lives were touched and changed because of Colton’s testimony. His experience has had a profound affect on many people.
A treatise of the physical descriptions of Jesus (not from the bible but from historical manuscripts) can be found at the Nazarene Way (website below). Several of the documents there describe Jesus with gray or blue eyes, and hair with golden highlights, not uncommon for the tribe He was from. They are fascinating to read and ponder.
http://www.thenazareneway.com/likeness_of_our_saviour.htm
I must read this book, Walmart hereI come. When Iread it I will be bb back with cmy comments .I have had this business card for three years, now must be the for to read the book, see you soon!
I personally know of a little 4 yr old that drowned, saw Jesus in heaven and came back to life, shocking her family and her friends .. Esp when her parents never took her to church or told her about Jesus or heaven. She also recog. her grandpa who had passed away before she was born and her 2 puppies. I think God is trying to get through to unbelievers right now as the world is getting bad. I recom a book called Closer to the LIght.. Written by a dr in Seattle who witnessed a ton of kids that died and came back to tell about heaven and Jesus.
I read the book “Heaven is for real” twice and will read it again many parts of the book brought tears to my eyes. It really made me look at my own life and what i sould have done better. I have been to wrapped up in the me first additude too long. Pray for me that god will show me the way. I have told all my coworks about the book and many have said they are going to get it so they too can read the amazing book about the little boy. I have tears in my eyes as i write this little committie.
Lei el libro del cielo es real con Colton y parece q todo lo dice acerca del cielo es muy cierto. Tuve hace uno años, una experiencia mientras dormia. Pude ver q estaba parada en una entrada como de unas murallas de piedra blanca, ( lo q conocemos por la Biblia como “A la puerta de la ciudad”), Senti el impulso de entrar, asi q lo hice, cuando camine unos pasos dentro de la ciudad me di cuenta q el piso era en ladrillos blancos en una pequeña bajada, y al levantar la vista, toda la ciudad era blanca y era de dia aunque no vi el sol. Pude ver muchas personas que caminaban en esa calle como deprisa teniendo cosas que hacer , pero se veian contentos. Mientras admiraba toda la blancura del lugar, vi como las personas se dispersaban a cada lado de la calle hasta desaparecer de manera inexplicable, pero antes, pude ver una figura de hombre parado sin moverse en medio de la multitud, me llamo tanto la atención que me no me di cuenta cuando todos desaparecieron, quedando solo la figura de ese hombre frente a mi, como a un tiro de piedra de distancia, aunque luego parecia mas cerca cada vez. El tenia el pelo corto algo despeinado y castaño, sus ojos eran una mezcla de azules intenso, rostro perfilado y una sonrisa tenue q le llegaba a los ojos,(sentia q me daba la bienvenida, pero no podia soportar esa mirada sin llorar, pues era como fuego en mi alma, tuve esa sensación de fuego durante dias y lo único que hacia al recordar era llorar, pues solo le preguntaba, porque me miraba así), vestia una túnica blanca y me hizo q observara el detalle de esta túnica, pues era de una sola pieza sin costuras por ninguna parte y le cubrian los pies y las manos apenas se veian. No sabia que era Jesús, pues siempre lo presentan con pelo largo, realmente muy diferente. Pero dejenme decirles que al ver esta foto echa por una niña de ocho años, si es el hombre que vi recibiendome en la cuidad, no hay duda, ese era él. Que bueno es mi Jesús!!! He tenido mas experiencias, no lo he visto mas en esas experiencias pero si lo he escuchado y dejenme decirle algo, SIEMPRE habla por su PALABRA, para que no dudemos que es él.Gloria a Dios!!!
Can you write that in English? I’d like to read what you wrote too.
I think God is reaching out to you, too, Michelle. That’s why you are so convinced God is real, and He cares about you.
One of my friends has a similar history, her life is a long series of tragedies and traumas and injuries. Her longing for love got her into several bad relationships, some of which she was lucky to survive. Two years ago she married a man who is very sweet and kind, a good Christian guy with a reputation for being steady and reliable. . I figured God would do this for her eventually because she really needs to know what it’s like to be in a decent family. And by the time she found this man, a lot of the ginger had been knocked out of her so she wasn’t looking for excitement anymore, she just wanted peace.
I noticed that she didn’t know how to be “normal” because of the bizarre life she’d had. Now she’s very grateful for the peace of being in a quiet, normal relationship.
When Adam & Eve ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, the serpent was right about some things. He said they would become like God, knowing good and evil. I believe this is possibly our Quest in Life, the purpose for our existance. You have encountered evil and you know what it is. There is some wisdom in knowing this, especially if God helps to process those horrible experiences so they turn into wisdom.
You also need to understand what it means to be Good… and the word “good” is so much more rich than we realize it is. The Bible says that only God is good. The little bit we know about “goodness” is only the tip of the iceberg you might say: it’s only a teeny glimpse into the immense goodness of God.
I found this website just now, because I love the book of Hebrews where it talks about how God does everything “Better.” A better Way, a better Covenant etc.
http://www.messianic-literary.com/hebrews.htm
That’s a messianic Jewish site which is kinda cool. I thought the outline he provided was a good start on reading Hebrews in light of knowing something BETTER. YES, God has a BETTER plan for your life!
I just read Heaven is for Real . Wow, what an inspiration . I made a copy of the photo of Jesus and have it on my desk and when I look into those eyes I feel complete peace. For those who doubt I feel sorry and for those who believe…..I will see you when we all get to Heaven and can stand in the presence of our Savior and his Father. I am going to buy 10 of the books and pass them around to friends to read.
On July 5, 2010, I had a heart attack. My wife did CPR that saved my life. I was transported to the hospital and was there for about 13 days. During that time, I was taken to Heaven by Mary, Our Lady. She took me to Jesus, Her Son. I was given a choice to return or to continue. I chose to return. The hospital staff and my doctors said it would take a year for me to recover to a more normal standard. On July 5, 2011, my wife and I left on a pilgrimage to give thanks for the gift of life. I did have a second heart attack in November of 2010. On our pilgrimage, a cousin of my mother in laws gave me the book Heaven is for Real. Although our experiences were very different, I could relate to the experience that Colon did have. I found the picture of Akiane’s Prince of Peace to be comfortable and warming to me. I am still healing in many ways. Heaven is Real and that is the gift Our Lady gave to me. To take away any doubt. Believe.
Truly he looks arabic however, his eyes are very piercing in which Colton mentioned to his father in the book Heaven is for real. Who knows? We do all know that we will find out some day :)
I loved the book and the little boy’s simple truthfulness. There have probably been many many experiences of the spirits of people going to heaven and coming back to tell of it but being discouraged by the unbelief of other people…and the fear of ridicule. Maybe that’s why God can use a little child who simply tells what he saw and heard and doesn’t question it, just confidently relates all to his parents.
Jesus is the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Him.
In 1999, my brother committed suicide. It was very difficult for me and my siblings (7 of us) to comprehend what had happened. Many questions came up, “Did he believe in God?”, “Do you think he’s in heaven?” I believe, after much prayer that he is, indeed in heaven. He was raised Catholic but didn’t attend any organized religion as an adult. Supposedly, he considered himself agnostic. He was severely depressed when he took his life. In my attempt to understand what he went through God sent me a vision and a very real feeling of “anguish” that was so powerful, I then believed he was not to blame for his “choice” and is now in God’s loving hands. Another brother of mine, related a dream he had around the time we lost my brother. My brother was trying to understand why. My brother saw a vision of my dead brother pointing to a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary (a statue that my father made of the Virgin praying) and he told him that this is what we are here on Earth for – to pray for each other, to love each other. FAITH.
One other story, I was a lonely child even though I grew up in a large family. When I was at my loneliest, I would pray to Mary and I would ask her for a husband some day. I believe that she went to God, Our Father and brought my petitions to him. I did marry an incredible man and have one lovely child. We believe we are soulmates and were chosen to be together. When I found out I was pregnant, the words just flowed out of me without even thinking. I said to my husband, “If it’s a girl, can we name her Mary?” It hadn’t been a name I even considered in my dreams. It was because of the outpouring of her love for me that it was only right to name my daughter, Mary.
We need to pray for those who are being lead by the devil. The devil is real and wants as many follows as possible. I know that sounds crazy but it’s true. Pray for one another that we will be stronger and do God’s will. God bless all of you reading this.
That’s a sweet story, Rosanne. I appreciate how people share their own experiences and thoughts here. Gives me alot to think about. I agree, it’s difficult to see people turn their backs on God. Prayers are needed.
That picture is accurate, that is the same Jesus I saw in a dream, also when I was in the hospital, a man that looked the same way, dressed in white (he was not tall) brought me food, encouraged me and then disappeared. I always knew that Jesus hair is not long as in the pictures, but short like the painting. When I saw the little girls’ picture a while back on her website, I said the same thing. We have seen God’s Glory Jesus Christ.
I have been telling everyone to read Colton’s story of “Heaven Is For Real.” God chose this innocent child to teach all of us about Jesus, the heavenly kingdom, angels and our loved ones. How blessed are those that read this book and believe. I love Akiana’s paintings of ‘Prince Of Peace’ ,’ Father Forgive Them’ and ‘Mary with the baby Jesus in blue.’
Quite simply she is amazing and her work is inspirational. Gazing upon Akiana’s masterpieces one feels a calm tranquil awe, especially in the aqua green eyes of Jesus. They are mesmerizing, deep and compassionate.
The most amazing piece of the puzzle is that the shroud of Turin matches the art of Akiana.
God the Father wants us to know the love of Jesus, believe and pray; particularly for unbelievers!
We are so lucky to know that God has a divine plan and we are in the palm of His hands.
Satan is busy in this world seducing so many that it is our obligation to pray for others, love one another by using our hands and feet to help, reach out and spread goodness. We are the light for others who are in darkness. I feel there is an urgency to reach the young people of the world plugged into 21st Century Learning who are bombarded with constant noise. They are unable to really hear God or see with their hearts! Let us pray, pray, pray.
I have always wondered how Jesus looks like and I really thank God I stumbled upon this book ‘Heaven Is For Real’ in the bookshop. When I first looked at the painting by Akiane, I felt fear because of the piercing eyes. But upon closer inspection, I realised that His eyes actually show the love he has for me, in fact for all of us. I had backslided along my path as a Christian and I had always had this fear that I would never be able to go to Heaven and see Jesus. This accounts for my initial fear. But now I am back to having a close relationship with Jesus in the sense that I talked to Him most of the time and I had prayed that He would tell me whether I can go to Heaven one day when my time is up on earth.Perhaps this book is the answer to my prayer.I certainly hope so.
I read this book and cried over one main thing….you see, I’ve been a believer for a long, long time. Am 41 years old, but started to really get what God was about when I switched churches and started going to a bible church in 1999. I don’t doubt that God exists, I don’t doubt that Jesus walked this earth…but sometimes life is so very hard. I have been married for 3 years…and about 1 1/2 years ago, my wife and I had a miscarriage. This was very painful for my wife and myself. We have been struggling to conceive and sometimes I begin to wonder “will I ever become a father”. After reading this book, and Colton’s account of meeting his unborn sister, I now know that I am a father and I will be able to meet my child someday in heaven. This is very comforting to me…even though I’m in tears while writing this response. I am really looking forward to going to heaven to him/her.
You just made me cry. I can’t wait until you get to meet your child. You are a father!
I agree Christine.
KAC, I’m so sorry for the loss you and your wife have endured. It breaks my heart to hear your story. You are indeed a father and your wife, a mother. I will pray for you and your wife. I feel strongly that if others pray for us in our hour of need, our prayers are more likely to be heard. So if there is anyway you can ask others to pray for you and your wife to have a family, I believe God will hear your prayer. I would also like to encourage you to pray steadfastly to the Virgin Mary, the mother of all mothers. She answered my prayer for a wonderful husband and eventually a daughter. She takes our prayers to our Heavenly Father and her Son, Jesus. God bless you and your wife. And someday you will be reunited with your little one.
I have yet to read the book, “Heaven Is for Real”. I’m looking forward to reading it. One of my brothers recommends it highly.
I saw an interview of Akiane and saw her incredible paintings (on YouTube). What an amazing young person. We will all be so blessed to be in the presence of our Lord one day in Heaven, no matter how he appears. In the meantime, we must remember our blessings here on Earth and fulfill our purpose – love one another and keep the commandments.
Just remember in the last days Jesus’ warned about those that would say “There’s the Messiah” or ” here’s the Christ”…dont be deceived and chase after idols ,images or depictions…The TRue Form of Yeshua will be revealed in God’s time. The bible really never gives a physical description for reasons. Jesus want us to be able to identify Him by His voice. The sheep knows His “voice” is what He says in scripture. The tricky devil can come as an angel of light to fool you and use a 4 year old child to deceive many who wouldn’t dare question an innocent child. Just beware and know the Word
you are so right! and i know that feeling of the tricky devil as i experienced his annoying self a couple of nights ago.. I was watching that Jersey mom who is a medium and thought of how nice she was for confirming all these good things to people, i prayed to the Lord to give me confirmation if it was ok or not, researched it and they are considered abominations on this world!
SO yea, satan..is a slithering snake
I don’t have a problem with it, because the Bible does say, “Out of the mouth of Babes…” and that’s what is SO unique about this painting and the confirmation of by Colton AS WELL AS another very young child who had a near-death experience! Another little boy ALSO confirmed that the picture looked like the Jesus he saw. All these “babies” think this painting is like Jesus.
If a cult following was being developed, I would have a problem with it. But the only thing that’s happened is little children have confirmed that’s what the Jesus they saw in their vision looks like. Which is really cool. And, it’s from 2 or 3 witnesses so that’s an interesting point too.
Might as well enjoy it, because Colton’s book is all about Jesus and it glorifies the Lord. I thought the family did a good job of writing the book in such a way that it was merely a narrative of what Colton told them. They didn’t jump to conclusions, they just told Colton’s story and they didn’t do it in such a way that it would glorify themselves. That’s a very difficult balance, I think there was a lot of wisdom in the way they wrote the book.
I highly recommend it. And I tend to be more skeptical and jaded than most, IMO. But I absolutely loved Colton’s story: it’s incredibly encouraging especially in these difficult times.
Wow!
Rosanne…thank you for your encouraging words. I really appreciate your prayers. Ezekiel, thank you as well for your words of warning which are very biblical. I think that we all do need to be very careful and to recognize his voice. I do think, though, that this book had very interesting points. While at church a few years ago, I had heard a sermon where the preacher brought up an interesting survey of emergency room doctors, where there had been many life after death experiences. It was interesting to hear how many patients would talk about heaven/hell. Colton did bring up some things in discussions that I believe were biblically related and matched in with the word very well. What we all need to watch for, though, are times where people seem to be talking about the word of God, but when you do biblical reading yourself and look into what they say, it doesn’t line up with the Bible. Example, Jehovah’s Witnesses. Upon looking at the bible, it looks like what they believe lines up with the bible…but when you study the bible, then you realize that it really doesn’t line up. Looking and studying, I think, are 2 completely different things. If you search for God and really delve into His word…then you will find the truth in God and in God alone.
Peace be with you all, may God bless you richly, may grace that only comes from Him be with you and may all that read these words know that Jesus is the Only Way!
Yes, and also the Mormons.
Yes, I agree: I didn’t see anything in Colton’s book that contradicted the Bible. I think the writers of this book were careful not to apply interpretations or conclusions to anything, either. Mostly it’s just a testimony, and the Bible does say that our testimony is a good thing that God uses. I’m very wary of false teaching — I thought this book was a pure blessing to read and I couldn’t find anything to complain about.
God reveals Himself to many in different way. Doesn’t Acts 7 state “our sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams”, his account of heaven is real, John also spoke of many visions he had in the Book of Revelation. That little boy’s story is a gift from God and its accurate.
I do not attend “church” nor am knowledgeable enough to quote the Bible, yet after an NDE a few years ago following a near-fatal accident, I “came back” experiencing an indescribable peace and knowing there was no “death”. I was agnostic/atheist prior to the accident, yet have since known without doubt the Divine realm exists and it launched me on a spiritual path. While I have not read Colton’s book, I have seen his interviews and scanned the book at the store, and fully believe all that he experienced and described as true.
I purchased both of Akiane’s paintings of Jesus for my home. It does not concern me if they represent *exactly* how Jesus looked when he walked the Earth 2000 years ago. I believe the Bible even says that when Jesus re-appeared following his “death” that he looked different each time, such that His disciples and Mary Magdalene did not recognize him? Since God lives, breathes, and assumes all forms of life in the Universe, what I see when I look at these images is simply the amazingly kind, patient, sweet, inspirational, and beautiful face of God.
Love! ♥
All of the foregoing comments about Jesus leave me with positive reinforcement, renewed faith in humanity. The more we talk about Him, share Him among us, spread Him across the world, the closer we come to His Kingdom on earth! The things that everyone who has had an NDE will agree are: Yes there IS life after life, and YES God is real, and YES Jesus loves all of us.
I loved the book. I am mesmerized by the picture. Regarding his hair….I believe my hairdresser is an angel straight from heaven, so maybe Jesus got his hair done by one of the hairdresser angels or saints. Who knows? But, I believe there is so much more going on in heaven that we cannot comprehend and only some secrets are told. I’m just so happy he is my Saviour.
Alright this may sounds a little nutty or something. Im 26 year old man and I have attended church on and off again for a very long time. My life hasnt exactly been down the greatest path I wish I could change alot of things but this is a small story I would like to share with everybody and maybe it will change my life. Hopefully it truely does. About a year ago I had a dream of an angel, this angel was tall Im talking unreal it was tall and we were standing above Im not sure if it was the a city in particular or every city on earth mixed into one but it was huge as far as the eye could see. He gave me a letter and the letter was one that was one like parchment paper and his exact words to me were “Only two people will ever recieve this letter on earth, this is for you, this is from God” And when I awoke I was so astonished that I had completely forgot what the letter said. If the person is out there that had this same dream or somebody could tell me the meaning behind this please do so. Thank you.
Cody, you are not nuts, and what a cool dream. It sounds to me like God dropped a beautiful breadcrumb for you. My advice is to take a really close, quiet look inside yourself and ‘see’ what you see. God is living much closer to you than you might think. ♥
so it sounds like there was more on the letter besides the line you quoted, but you forgot?
i had a similar experience when God came to me… He was speaking the most profound and eloquent words… i dont even know if i knew what they were in my brain but my spirit could understand everything.. they were beauty and love and poetic and perfect. but i couldnt remember a lick of them when i awoke. But i know this- they fed my spirit-man which is fortified only from heaven (God) and that is the part of me I want fed more than any other!
You may have experienced a true sight when you are only able to see/hear/percieve with spiritual eyes. Hebrews 12 talks about a very real, present spiritual reality (note part where he mentions “city”)
22But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, 23to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, 24to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.
25See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks.
In revelation, during the anti-christ’s reign, there are 2 prophets/witnesses4u Jesus who do wondrous miracles & cause major problems 4 the anti-christ resulting in their death. After they are murdered, their bodies are dragged through the streets & left out in public to rot. After 3 days of this, the prophets come back 2 life…..Maybe you will be one of the chosen two. Now before you laugh, please keep in mind that most of the New Testament was written by Paul, a guy who was not only “not going down the greatest path” but who was murdering Christians, for being Christians. God loves to use the least likely folks in His plans. I think to show us how we have it all wrong in our assessments of each other, or maybe to surprise & confound Satan. Read revelation. It’s particularly interesting that you would get this vision & not know of this revelation prophesy.
The book of Revelation chapter 10 also talks about an enormous angel that stands with one foot on land and one foot on the sea. The angel gives the prophet Daniel a letter or parchment, maybe it is similar to the one the angel gave you. Maybe you should read the book of Revelation and see if it helps you understand your dream.
Revelation is hard to understand, so don’t get frustrated if it doesn’t make sense. It’s not supposed to make sense, I think. And yet Revelation does give us clues and things to look for so we’ll be able to understand when these things start happening. And they DO seem to be happening, now, in our time.
I put off reading Heaven is For Real but was drawn to reading it while on R&R in Florida. I flipped through the pictures, stopped at this one, went on to read. But felt compiled to return to this picture, did and then went back to reading. The third time I was drawn back to this picture I stayed there and found myself saying aloud, “I have seen Him.” I was a victim of incest. As soon as I immediately spoke that sentence aloud, it flashed in my mind that it was HIM who sat on the bed and held me while I cried. I don’t really care if anyone believes me because I know it happened and HE looked exactly like this when HE held me. This proves He is with us always, through good and bad. Thanks for listening and for me seeing this picture is the truth as I know it and no one can change my mind.
I am so sorry for your painful experience, I had a similar one and I believe you dear one. Thank God Jesus came to you. I believe someone pulled me up, (my spirit) out and away during my attack but I could not see anyone with me but felt safe, quiet and peaceful until my spirit had to return to my body. But for that (relatively) short period of time, I was spared the trauma of feeling the attack that was happening to my body down below (my spirit was held up near the ceiling of the room) and I chose not to watch what was happening to me. I thought my perpetrator was killing me, had no idea what sex was whatsoever, so I basically I believed I was “scared to death” and my spirit fled. I wish I could have known for sure if I did that myself or if an angel or Jesus or a past relative did that for me, because I just don’t know or can’t remember :( BUT I got from that what I NEED, that there really IS a life after death, we have a soul and death (simply our body’s ceasing to live and the release of our soul from it) is nothing more than a breath you take, has given me a certainty no one could ever shake. I KNOW. WE KNOW Rosalie<3
I haven’t read the book but I know heaven is real along with Our Lord!
I haven’t read the book and don’t intend to because one ‘fact’ that Colton shared on TV about his experience was that God had really big wings. Sorry. God is a Spirit, and only the angels have wings. If he’s wrong on just this one point, then his entire account is suspect.
I read the book twice and I thought it lined up with scripture really well. Colton’s description of how Jesus went up and down is consistent with the Bible’s description of the Ascension. Colton said that his grandfather had really big wings… that’s where that comes from.
I have read the book 3 times and he never said God had wings. He did say God was really big and that He loved us all so very much. I would read the book, I found nothing wrong in any of his memories of heaven. I believe every word of it and it is deepend my belief in God, Jesus and Heaven. This was God’s plan for Colton’s dad to write this book. Much easier to believe a 3 year old’s account of heaven before he had had a chance to form him own opinions, than it was for me to belief an adult’s account after they have developed or formed their own concepts and knew what the bible promises.
You should never judge a book by its cover. Whoever told you tat Colton said God had really big wings was inaccurate. YOU should read te book for yourself and draw your OWN conclusions as to the authenticity of Colton’s experience.
You are mistaken! Colton said that Jesus did not have wings! He went up and down like an elevator without wings. Please reread that passage.
Cody, I wish I knew what your dream meant. Could the city represent all humanity? Thus, are you supposed to be thinking about others rather than yourself? Just a thought.
Rosalie, I am so sorry to hear about the horrible event in your life. It hits close to home, as my grandmother was a victim of incest. In your hour of need HE – Jesus was with you. How incredible. Being Catholic, I often envision the picture of Jesus with the Sacred Heart, so I envision him, God the Father, and the Holy Spirit living in my heart. When I think of it that way, it compels me to try to do better in my life.
I read this little book in a couple hours, I loved every word..I do believe it is true. I know Jesus wants everyone to know him and come to the father. I was so moved by the things the boy remembered. I am looking forward to seeing Jesus soon. I too thought the picture would match up with the Shroud, am glad to see others feel the same.
Jesus is coming soon, look to Him for your salvation, He is the only way. Love to all.
Ever since I saw the ‘Matthew’ movie with Bruce Marciano playing the role of Jesus and read Bruce’s book ‘In the Footsteps of Jesus’ (highly, highly recommended) I have believed that God knit Bruce together in his mother’s womb to resemble Jesus as closely as possible. I believe that, if you watch ‘Matthew’, you get a very accurate idea of Jesus’ personality and what He looked like. Every scene in that movie was prayed over by the directors before it was shot and watching the movie and reading the book gives one the most beautiful insight into who Jesus was then and is today. The first thing that struck me when I saw Akiane’s painting of Jesus was how much it looked like Bruce in ‘Matthew’. I also see a strong resemblance to the Shroud of Turin, although there are differences.
I loved Colton’s story and believe it is accurate. It doesn’t bother me that there are differences and variations between people’s accounts of heaven. As human beings on earth we are all unique and also imperfect vessels and probably do not ‘filter’ everything the same way or perfectly. What is important is that Jesus is REAL and we need to put our faith in Him if we ever want to get to heaven to find out for ourselves what it is really like.
As to why Jesus may be revealing Himself to us in this way, maybe it is because time is running out and He is using more and more methods of drawing people to Him. If the sharing of experiences and pictures like this bring people to Him, WONDERFUL! No, we must not then hang on to these books and pictures and base our faith on them. They are just tools to bring us to the Truth which is in the Bible and we must mature and move on to greater and greater Truth and we read His Word. It struck me while reading ‘Heaven is for Real’ that so much of what Colton shared was already in the Bible for us to know, but we require hearing it from a small child to make us take it in and believe it.
At any rate, thank you Colton for sharing your story and all the others who have shared on this site. Thank you Akiane for your painting – don’t be drawn away from Jesus and His Truth or allow the world to dilute the truth you have already had revealed to you. God bless you both and your families and continue to use your ‘works’ to draw people to Him.
To God be the Glory!
I have to say that Heaven is for Real is a tremendous testimony. Not to say that I have doubts before reading this book but that the true is that when you hear a testimony like this, your faith increases and you get more strength and patience to meet our savior one day soon. I strongly believe that this generation won’t pass without witness the coming of our Jesus, king of kings, lord of lords, and the light of my life.
I agree with you, Christ is coming soon. I pray that everyone will receive Him soon
I read this great book in a few hours and I had chills almost the whole time. That’s because after my father past away in march 2009 I was deployed to Afghanistan and after 4-5 months after he past I got a visit from my father in a dream. First I was freaked out and asked him how he could be here when he had died. And he told me that he was ok but he was worried about my brother and sister. I started to cry bad because I had seen him and I knew that this was the real thing. As he looked at me I knew it was him but a younger 25-30 year old. And he knew that I was upset and I had that feeling that he knew I wasn’t ready to see him but he was happy. So he walked off and I woke up crying and a friend that was next to me asked that same day if I was ok and I told him what had happen. And to this day I could tell you and draw you what everything looked like and what he was wearing. And he wore white with a blue ribbon “or whatever people call them” around his body. But I know what I had seen and I read things in that book that I had seen. And I thank God everyday for getting to see him.
Get it on audio I listened for 4.2 hrs couldn’t stop… Smiles
I found God about 7 yrs ago He has Blessed me greatly!!!! With no doubt in my mind, This Book is amazing, a true testimony!
Theresa, I agree w/you that the noise of our present-day technology attempts to drown out that “still, small voice”— that is why it is such a blessing to discover a blog like this! I have been SO ENCOURAGED, and provoked to examine my own heart/faith in a deeper way, by reading all the comments left here. It feels like a beautiful, loving little community of ppl who are here strengthening each others’ faith! Have enjoyed everyone’s stories SO MUCH! I ALMOST bought the book (Heaven Is For Real) two days ago, but instead purchased a Prayer & Praise Organizer journal in the hopes that having it in front of me will motivate me to make daily entries in it. I skimmed through the Burpo’s book, saw Akiane’s Jesus picture, jotted down her name, and a later search for her art led me to this blog! Now I want to buy Colton’s book!
It occurred to me that Pops, in Heaven, could have greeted Colton with “You’re Todd’s son, aren’t you?” (a statement), which later could have been re-phrased by the mind of a small child as, “Are you Todd’s son?” We must remember that 4-year olds are not English majors. Even adults sharing a spoken testimony will rarely share it the same way twice, sometimes adding more details, other times omitting them. Time also blurs memories, which is why it is so important to capture something as soon as possible after it occurs.
I watched a special on The Shroud of Turin years ago, around Easter. They had scientifically taken samples of all the pollens found on the Shroud. Some of the pollens were exclusively indigenous to plants found only in one country, and the pollens confirmed the route the Shroud had taken over the centuries as it was hidden & moved in an attempt to keep it safe. It was a riveting program, which gave me goosebumps and a sense of awe. Since God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all, it makes perfect sense that the Resurrection power which raised Christ from the grave was a flash of light so immense and blinding that it could imprint Jesus’ image on the cloth. Our cameras and floodlights are puny by comparison.
Annie Cee, you and others here may want to keep an eye out for a Lionsgate film premiering sometime the end of this month, “Machine Gun Preacher”. It is a true story about a former biker & drug dealer who is now rescuing children in Sudan. Based on the book “Another Man’s War: The True Story of One Man’s Battle to Save Children in Sudan” by Sam Childers, published by Thomas Nelson. I previewed some of the book on Barnes & Noble, and it is amazing the way that God protected this man in his work. God is going “all out”, using children (Colton & Akiane) and reformed violent drug dealers, and anything He can to convert the lost and to edify believers, in times like these.
Akiane’s Jesus has the kindest eyes I’ve ever seen! :)
A “P.S.” to the above, RE: my quote that God is light, and previous post(s) questioning why Akiane’s Jesus has a dark side to His face— On Akiane’s site, she describes her Prince of Peace painting in her own words: “Love and truth are represented on the light side of Jesus’ face; the other (side) is of darkness and suffering — Yet there’s light in His eye. This light is a reminder that He is ALWAYS with us.” — Akiane
Yes, He IS always with us, even in our own times of darkness and suffering. What a poignant observation to come from the mind of a then 8-yr.-old child.
Annie Cee had mentioned how modern society has become less sensitive to spiritual things. I see this in America. But I believe that Europeans in general still fit the description Annie gave of being more superstitious and open to spiritual beliefs. When I asked my Eastern European friends how they met/became engaged, my girl friend said, ” I saw a comet or a shooting star, and I made a wish that I would have a boyfriend, and here he is!” It is interesting to note that Akiane’s Mother is Lithuanian. So it was in Akiane’s European heritage to be perceptive of things beyond the material world. At the time her visions started, Akiane’s father was an American “lapsed” Catholic. So even though he was “lapsed”, at some point in time he or his ancestors believed. It does not surprise me at all that God chose Akiane to be the recipient of visions of Heaven.
I ordered Colton’s book today! Can’t wait until it arrives! :)
These pictures are a blessing to my spirit! I know you have been touched from the Master.
May Jesus continue to bless you and be the main person in your life. Suzy
I am blown away by her talent, and then you add in that she knew nothing of Jesus or God or heaven growing up, and I am sold! Heaven does exist, and His eyes…. they feel like they see me. She’s definately an instrument of God.
I read how she got the picture of this man. She prayed for I think a week and finally a carpenter showed up that was really tall. He took awhile to decide to let her paint him but finally he did.
That’s a lie.
Wow, that’s harsh. I read the same story, it’s on Akianne’s website.
Ah, I found it. The story of the carpenter is in the book about Akiane. Here is a link on Google books:
http://books.google.com/books?id=wy-0IgOrOMMC&pg=PA27&lpg=PA27&dq=akiane's+painting+of+Jesus+Carpenter&source=bl&ots=7utlRLpbMG&sig=j9knrT5sxk1_szH5fj4MHfV3KIY&hl=en&ei=ouDZTonDJ9K9tgeihtjsAQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CDIQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q&f=false
Your book is truly a blessing and spoke to me soooo much!!! Thank you for being obedient to God’s calling.
I BELIEVE! I WAIT! PRAISE BE TO OUR FATHER, SON AND HOLY SPIRIT. HELP US FIGHT THE ENEMY!
I believe that Christ is not coming soon. We do not know the day of Jesus neither the hour and the the expectation.
i have been amazed at the similarities between Akiane’s Jesus and the image that i found from a friend that was the likeness of Jesus just as He appeared to me in the middle of the night when I got up to get a drink. He looked right through me as if to know everything i ever did and thought and all my concerns or questions were immediately stilled and satisfied in this bath of permeating love. When I looked into His eyes they were like a tunnel of blue flickering gems (but they werent gems. but they were soooo crystally and blue) and it seemed i was looking into eternity. Later God revealed to me they were flickering because they were flames… the hottest kind!
the air was prismatic with a million different colors but all white at the same time. and same with Jesus- i knew his beard was brown, etc.. but it was all washed in perfect white.
see pic of Jesus:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=156942251061830&set=a.156942217728500.35727.100002381675416&type=1&theater
(copy and paste it into your browser at the top of your screen.)
take a look at the painting of what Jesus looked like when He appeared to me. I think you will enjoy comparing this with akiane’s work. they are strikingly similar.
I saw your picture and Akriane’s. Yes, there is a lot of resemblence. Did you paint it? and when? God bless.
I just finished HEAVEN IS FOR REAL and really enjoyed it. I am a 44 year old mother of two and have been a practicing Catholic all my life. I love the fact that Colton said he also saw Mother Mary in Heaven knealing by Jesus and that she still worries for Him as a mother would do. I also miscarried before I had my two daughters and always deeply felt I lost a son. I would love to see my son in Heavan one day but until then, God the Father has adopted him. At the very least, God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit have the final say. HE is the Alpha and the Omega. HE is the Way, the TRUTH, and the LIFE. I’m not sure why there are skeptics in this world and that everthing has to be a perfect match. Just know, please, that Jesus came into the world to die for our sins so that all humanity can be saved. He loves us that much! I have people throughout my life dry to “discourage” me from my faith. Why? I’m not sure. I can tell you in my experience that some discourage because it is hard to live up to the ten commandments and perhaps this is a way of dealing with it? All in all, whatever the reason, HE is there for us, and for that I AM TRULY GREATFUL.
Ann, your post blessed me. How sweet & honest!
Don’t EVER let anyone or anything extinguish your faith.
You will see the child you lost again someday, and also you will see Jesus face-to-face.
I own a copy of the book HEAVEN IS FOR REAL now. Absolutely LOVE this book! :)
Thank you
Thank you so much for the uplifting comment. I have to tell you that as God is my witness, the day after I posted my comment, my husband and I were having dinner and he told me of an “incredible” dream he had last night. His dream of “a little boy” with a “backpack” on him as if getting ready to go to school put his arms around my husband and said “I love you very much.” As my husband is telling me this, my mouth was dropped and I didn’t answer right away. I had not told my husband yet of my posting my comments. He said it was the most “overwhelming love” he ever felt. This confirms to me that we cannot even imagine the type of love that awaits the faithful. After I told my husband about this, he just looked at me (he had obviously known about my miscarriage and I always told him I deeply felt it was a boy) and he was quiet all weekend, although appeared hopeful. I have to say that when I was at mass yesterday, I cried for my Michael. But, I know he is safe and LOVED.
God Bless You,
Ann
I’m not sure why there are skeptics in this world, either, Ann. God confirms his Love and care to those who do make the effort to believe… why would anyone want to live without God’s help in their lives?
Your husband’s dream… how beautiful! What a special touch from God.
I was wondering since the “rainbow horse” was mentioned if there were any other animals such as our beloved dogs or cats etc. in heaven also.
Why would heaven be anything less than earth? It will be so much more! All the animals that have been lost due to extinction, plus many more that we’ve never heard of. The Bible does mention a lion, lamb, and horses in heaven. Jesus comes back on a white horse. The Bible refers to animals as having the same “breath of life” as humans do, with the “breath of life” being spiritual in nature. And Noah’s covenant from God was promised to the animals as well as the humans. Animals will be judged for their deeds, the Bible says this, and how can they be judged if they are dead and gone?
I wrote an article on this, with Bible verses etc. http://waitingfortheword.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=13&Itemid=5
Tom, in the Epilogue of “Heaven is for Real”, Colton’s Dad Todd is answering questions people have asked them. He says there are animals in Heaven, and that Colton saw dogs, birds, and even a friendly lion. While he didn’t specifically mention noticing a cat, I’d like to hope that there are cats, being really big on cats, myself.
I bought my copy of the book from CBD (Christian Book Distributors) for only $8.99. It seemed a small price to pay for such an uplifting, faith-inspiring book. I was not disappointed!
I would love to think our beloved pets are in heaven, too.
God created all the creatures as gifts for us.
Here is an interesting story I am going to
share with everyone. I was on my way to
Connecticut to visit friends, when I stopped
off in an airport bookstore to search for a
book to read on my flight. I was interested in
reading a book called “Heaven Is For real”
about a little boy who had a near death
experience and went to Heaven and met Jesus.
I could not find this book, either the airport
bookstore was out or they never had it in
stock. I ended up not getting anything to
read and nap on the way to Connecticut
instead. After my visit to Connecticut
I was a bit upset because I had a big
fight with one of my good friends.
I got a flight out of Hartford, CT
and had to change planes in Baltimore, MD.
I had to wait at least an hour an a half
to change planes in Baltimore, so as I sat
there bored and a little down about the
argument I had with my friend. I felt a
sense of relief that I was in a strange
city and knew no one. I was one who never
liked being alone but at this point my
mind was at ease, until this woman I’d
guess about 60 years old made a beeline
over to me. She told me that God spoke to
her heart for her to come over and speak to
me. She showed me a before photo of how
much she used to weigh and I can tell she had
lost a lot of weight because her photo looked
as thought she must have weighed about 400lbs
and standing before me I’d guess she weighed
about 150lbs. She looked good and she introduced
me to this product called Nuvia3… it was a weight
lose supplement/drink. She told me that you drink
one before each meal. She went on to tell me a little
more info on it and gave me her business card
because she sells it. She also pulled out a book,
the book that I was looking for called “Heaven Is for
Real” She wanted to know if I ever heard of it.
I told her I searched for it to read as I traveled.
However, I could not find it. she told me that
I could have it and she also gave me a sample of
the nuvia3 drink. I was grateful to her and I
reached into my purse and pulled out my
published book called “In Due Season: We Will Hear God’s Voice” I gave
her a copy and she was thrilled and asked me
to autograph it for her. She as well as I knew
that God led her over to me. She called me the next
day and told me she read the book and loved it and that it was a
blessing to her, she also told several other people
about my book. Not Many know about my book. However, when
someone does read it they are moved. These Stories like mine
and Colton Burpo’s are gifts from God to the world.
10/14/11…Picked up this book “Heaven is for real” at Costco in Sacramento. Read the back of the cover and was skeptical, but for the fact it was from the words of a four year old, I wouldn’t have bought it. Being of a scientific mind and one who says if I can’t see it with my own eyes or experience it, I have a very difficult time believing anything. Also, one who has Catholic parents and a Jewish Grandmother, and raised on the “guilt factor”, I turned away from religion. I also don’t believe there is a higher being, because prior to truly not believing he existed, I did turn to him for help. My pleas and prayers were not answered or as I liked to say, not even acknowledged. Nevertheless, long story short, after reading this book in one sitting today, it brings out curiousity and possible renewed faith about this topic…God. I guess this might be meant to be, as on a recent vacation, for some strange reason I was overwhelmingly fasicinated with all the churches in the city I visited and insisted on photographing them. My thanks to the Burpo parents for expressing their Faith in a non-pushing way so the lay person could possibly believe and try again to have faith. MC – Sacramento, Ca.
I can tell you this: If one is truly saved and belongs to Jesus, God hears every prayer you utter! Does He answer every prayer in your timing, the way you want it answered. My experience is this. Never in my timing but His. Jesus desires to bless me because He is just that sweet and kind. He knows the desires of my heart. My tastes. He made me that way. If I’m living for Him He bless me with the earthly “things” I like. Did he prevent my Dad from dying when I begged him. No. It’s not the job of the created to dictate to the creator like a cosmic vending machine to do things our way.
Your comments are very thoughtful, MC. Jesus had a big problem with religion, too. In fact, it was the religious leaders who were determined to kill Him. I would like to suggest that you read the New Testament to find out more about Jesus. Sometimes when we go back to the Gospels as an adult, it opens up in a whole new way. Jesus was fascinating, his miracles were amazing, his teaching was mind-boggling.
Every time I read the gospels I see more that I hadn’t noticed before. For example, Jesus sent his 12 disciples out in teams of 2 to do ministry. He told them, “Don’t take any money, don’t take any food, don’t take an extra cloak.” Maybe they were allowed to take a change of clothes, but they carried very little if they did. That’s an incredible contrast with modern churches who need a million dollars before they can even begin the work that God has called them to do. Who teaches this kind of faith anymore? But Jesus wanted his original 12 to depend entirely on God. If we really want to cut to the chase and find out what Christianity is about, it helps to go back to the source: Jesus.
Annie Cee, AMEN! I LOVE your insight. That’s why I consider the Bible the LIVING WORD of GOD, not just some book thrown together by men. Face it, If YOU were God and you only had one book on Earth that was to provide all the knowledge mankind would ever need in order to live a good life and to learn who you, their God was and what your will fro them was,then wouldn’t you, an all powerful and all knowing God be capable of making sure it is created perfectly and remained intact and accurate for all time? I never hold or regard any Bible as if it is just a wonderful Historic record or book, I hold it with the regard that I am in the presence of God Himself, I am holding his loving heart and perfect mind. His living and breathing map to all that He is and all that ever was or will be. That is also why reading aloud the words therein is a spiritual matter. It is wise to pray before you even open it, IMO.
Thanks for being a blessing here<3
Hi, MC. I just discovered this blog this morning and came back to it this afternoon. I wondered where you may have “arrived” since writing this post that you wrote. I am believer but I had an eye-opening experience with “Christians” that broke my heart so badly that I stopped reading my Bible and attending church services. I thought I was mad at God but came to realize that I was mad at myself because I “bought in” to this thought that “Christians” were different from people who don’t know Jesus. The truth is people are people no matter what. I am still having a hard time with some things. I surprised myself when I picked up the copy of “Heaven is For Real”. I, too, was intriqued by this 4 year old’s story. I had read a lot about Akiane (the child painter) years ago and was fasinated to see how the two children’s stories connected. Even though I got a little annoyed at Colton’s dad trying to make points that may or may not be there, it brought hope back to my heart as well. I guess today Colton’s dad’s thoughts actually make me giggle because we so much want to prove stuff and make sense out of things that really don’t make any sense. I am soooo very happy to say that because of comments on this blog – especially AnnieCee’s, I am going to pick up my Bible again. I am also happy to say that no matter what, I know Jesus lived and died and lives now and that life is eternal and Christ in me IS the hope of glory. I never, ever denied those truths. I hope you have come to faith again.
Another very important lesson that I am learning (but don’t yet know what to do with it) is that Jesus did get angry at people who thought they knew stuff that they really had no idea about. I learned that it is not ok to let people carry on “in the Name of Jesus” and presume that they “hear” God. Some people do and some just think they do to satisfy their own selfish desires. I have a feeling that God is so much more than we could ever hope or imagine and that He is reaching out to a world that needs Him so desperately. He wants to supply every need. I don’t know . . . I just hope you are finding He is incredibly real and that He loves you more that you could ever dream. Because of Who He is and because of what He did, we are good and we are loved deeper than the ocean and higher than the stars in the sky. God bless you.
Unfortunately Christians are not always the best representatives of Christianity we always need to look to God for HIs example. I try to remember that my faith is about my personal relationship with God not other peoples perceptions of Him. I’m so glad this book has brought you back to have a faith with Him. You will not regret it. Blessings MC
If you truly are of a scientific view on all things i recommend you read the book “The Source Field Investigations” by David Wilcock. In that book there are hundreds of scientifical discoveries on the so called “fringe science” (not mainstream, officially acknowledged or encouraged science), discoveries that will shed light on all that you think you know, that will convince you in the existence of God, of Love, spirituality as the basis of our existence. And if you ponder on many (or all) the things presented there you will feel and know that God is always with you; you are never alone and you will understand what truly matters in life. That book is hidden under a veil of silence in Europe and especially in my country.
For those with a scientific bent, please read “Signature in the Cell” ( a rather lengthy book, but worth the time). God bless.
Have a I got book for you. Try reading “Signature in the Cell”. Hope to see your reaction on this blog some day. God bless.
Hello there, peace of Christ.
You forgot to mention this: “HELL” and satan are for real too..and all the wicked “Holy Oneness Rejecters, Holy Spiritual, ‘ETERNAL’ Moral Law Rejecters, Holy Sabbath-Day (the Seventh=Saturday) and Holy Name of Jesus for baptism Rejecters” will inhabit that place….are you one of them?!!!! I was, but when I got this message from him…TURN or BURN I changed from A to Z…
God Bless………..Brother James
MC, faith in God can be a funny thing. I’m so sorry that you feel that your prayer wasn’t answered or even acknowledged. I’ve found in life that my prayers aren’t always answered the way I think they should be answered. You are a spiritual person and the fact that you aren’t shutting him out even though you’ve felt betrayed says a lot about your faith. In fact, that is the word you used yourself, “possible renewed faith in this topic – God.” Faith is what is ultimately important, not where you go to church. My grandfather wasn’t “religious” but he was a very good man and lived a “faithful” life.
As far as science is concerned, I love it too. I wish everything was black and white. I think understanding the world would be so much easier but that isn’t what life is like. We are called to be “believers”. I love the story of doubting Thomas because we have Jesus’ own words, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” How incredibly powerful.
I love the story of your travels and the desire to photograph the churches. I’m drawn toward the beautiful images and architecture of God’s glory. When I was growing up, I felt lonely a lot and would find myself running often to a grotto that was tucked under some stairs at my parish church. It was very secluded and so peaceful. There was a statue of Mary. I’d cry my heart out to her, asking her to bring my petitions to our Lord. It gave me so much comfort. It felt like I’d never have my prayers answered. I’m guessing that it took about twenty years for things to fall into place. Give God, our Father, his Son, Jesus and the Holy Spirit a chance. If I can bestow some advice, study the lives of some of the saints (perhaps Thomas is a place to start) and then pray to them. Ask them to take your prayers to our Lord and be very patient.
God bless you in this journey.
Rosanne
I’m a recent Survivor of Domestic Violence and was feeling down. God has been a tremendous source of comfort for me over the years and still is. He has always done many miracles also. One of the miracles is using these comments today I have seen on this site to encourage me when I needed it most. I have been through so many things- and one of the problems was listening to Religious Leaders who tell us to put up with things we don’t need to put up with- but I will say this… even in the midst of the trials… My Heavenly Father through Jesus has never ever let me down when I need comfort and peace as long as I tell Him my sorrows and read His Word- He comforts me… so I urged those who doubt to simply talk to Him. He will reveal Himself to you.
I BELIEVE IT. THESE CHILDREN ARE SPEAKING THE TRUTH. JESUS IS HELPING ME A LOT WITH MY DESEASE AND I’M HAPPY NOW THAT I CAN SEE HIS FACE. OPEN YOUR HEART TO HIM BECAUSE YOUR LIVES WILL CHANGE FOR THE BETTER.
I have read all the above comments and am persuaded that there are a host of people hungry to know the spiritual truth of Jesus Christ our Savior. The scriptures tells us that we must become like little children if we are to enter into the glory He has prepared for us. Isn’t it amazing that God has revealed himself to two beautiful children and they are sharing their stories with the world. I pray God’s blessings on each person that reads Heaven is for Real and sees the portrait of the Prince of Peace. I also pray the Holy Spirit will convict the heart of each non believer as they experience these stories. My Jesus is real. Hallelujah!!!!
I am not concerned whether the Shroud of Turin is Jesus. The thing I am thankful for is he suffered for our illness, died and rose from the grave and ascended into Heaven. He said I go to prepare a place for you that where I am you may be also.
Isn’t God wonderful????
Very compelling story by this man, though it seems to me that the interviewer doesn’t believe a third of what she is hearing.
I read “Heaven is for Real” and LOVED it! I was so moved by this little boy’s story.
When I was a young teenager, my life was a mess (divorced parents, abusive father who I lived with) and I just wanted out of life. My dad used the old fashioned razors, the kind that you had to replace old, dull blades with new, sharp ones. I took one of the new ones and got into the tub. While crying and shaking, fed up with life and what I had to go through and just wanting to be done with it all, I drew the blade over my left wrist. Suddenly felt a hand close over my right hand stopping me. In that one touch I felt such love and compassion and understanding! I knew instantly who it was – JESUS! I didn’t see Him clearly but I definitely heard Him clearly. He said “Don’t. I love you too much! Call your mother. She is the answer.” Then my right hand was lifted up and made to drop the blade on the floor. I immediately started to cry harder and looked to see Him. Again, I didn’t see Him clearly but I knew, I KNEW it was Him and that He loved me and wanted me to live. I felt such love and peace! Needless to say that I got out of the tub, called my mother (who lived about 4 states away) and the wheels were put into motion to save me, in so many ways. Thank YOU Jesus!!!
When I look at Akiane’s painting of Jesus, I feel like I’ve seen that face before, but I’m not certain where. I believe her painting is of the face that I couldn’t see clearly enough that night. I can’t be certain, but it just feels right, you know? I get such a calm and peaceful and loving feeling when I look at the painting.
This is a very moving testimony, thank you for sharing your amazing experience. I can feel the love of Jesus when I read it.
Beth, it took guts to share your story! I hope any future “curve balls” that life throws your way, will inspire you to remember the great love He has for you, to have intervened so dramatically in your life. I pray you will know that in the same way He provided your mother as the solution in that situation, that He will ALWAYS have an answer or solution for you, no matter what life throws at you! You were in a tough place, but you received a touch directly from the Master. Little Colton & his parents were in a tough place too, but they also received a very special gift from Him. Having that in common is probably a part of why you love this book so much! (Plus, it’s just a GREAT book!)
I have read the Book “Heaven Is For Real” and I have also seen the Shroud of Turin. One needs to take a look at Nathan Greene’s picture “The Invitation”. They are all one in the same person.
I just finished Heavon is for real and I am blown away and wept with tears at the end of this increadable story of Colton. I am sure it has changed my feelings of heavon and has truely touched my life & had changed my forever. THANK YOU to Colton and his parents for shareing this amazing story. I look forward to heavon and am no longer afraid of death and going to live with our God for all eturnity!
shannonreed
October 27, 2011 at 11:34 am | #157
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I just finished Heavon is for real and I am blown away and wept with tears at the end of this increadable story of Colton. I am sure it has changed my feelings of heavon and has truely touched my life & has changed me forever. THANK YOU to Colton and his parents for shareing this amazing story. I look forward to heavon and am no longer afraid of death and going to live with our almighty God for all eturnity!
HE IS my Lord and I love Him!!! Words cannot express how ugly, but how beautiful God is. According to Isaiah 53:2b “He hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him.” I am not gay.
Akiane does state that she used a model for that pic btw, a carpenter (interestingly) who did work in her home. I have a different pic that Akiane painted as the screen saver on my computer, it’s sort of a different Jesus, he has a robe over his head. Anyway, I’ve never given the shroud much thought until one day the laptop lid was bent away from me, you know how it gets out of focus, & at that angle OMG! you see the shroud. Anyway I’m an ICU RN & here to tell that just like foxholes, there are no atheists in the ICU! I’ve heard many of the after-death experiences & they do not always involve the light & dead grandma- the scarry ones are of getting sucked down to hell!
louie, “dead grandma- the scarry ones are of getting sucked down to hell!”, my step-grandfather died last year. I was blessed with the chance to see him while he was in the hospital before he died (we don’t live in their state). He wasn’t saved… His son, my guardian always would tell him that he needed Jesus (not sure what he would tell him or how). The grandfather always refused saying that he was learned man and relied on himself, that he always has. I never witnessed to him myself until that day, in the hospital.
It was a rare visit when my husband, myself, and our son were all able to make it “home” for a visit. Grandfather was in the hospital again. My guardian finally told me that we could go take a very quick visit to see grandfather in the hospital. I was told that he was having nightmares and was afraid to sleep, that monsters were in his dreams. He was on strong antibiotics to fight sepsis because his body had started shutting down. When I went in, I felt sick to my stomach because I knew what his dreams were. He was very jovial, like his old self, even joked a little. But that was little consolation. I found a good spot to tell him that he could ask Jesus to take away the monsters and He would. This was what I felt led to say to him, the only thing I could say to witness to him of Jesus love. He gave me the reply above, I knew that he would say this, as he always seemed to say so in various ways. There’s not much you can say to witness to a man like that. I fully believe that if grandad had asked Jesus to take away the monsters, He also would have healed him. I fully believed even at that moment, that was Jesus, offering him one last chance. I left the room after giving him a hug, my love, and final farewell, hiding and choking back tears. As soon as I got out of the room, it all came out and I broke down in great sorrow and sobbing. I’m crying right now as I always do when I think about him, and where he is, and what could have been. This sorrow is worse than if he had died and gone to heaven. I will forever rejoice from now on when a saved loved one dies, because I know this sorrow. It cannot compare to a death of a brother and sister in Messiah, it just cannot. The death of brothers and sisters in Messiah are time of rejoicing, we will see them Again.
Thank you for posting this. I will think of this story and it will help me to not be afraid or apprehensive when telling someone about eternal life through Jesus.
I certainly believe that book is accurate. God and Jesus both love children… Why wouldn’t he choose to introduce The Heavenly Kingdom with a child. If you notice, both kids where 4 years old… Kinda tells you something is and has to be right.
Just finished reading Heaven is for real. I can believe this book and these pictures painted as the bible comments that “in the last days, young men will dream dreams and old men will have visions and he will pour out his spirit.”
So then I came to look for the picture of Jesus, after the book. I think the picture could be right, but if it isn’t, does it really matter in the grand scheme of things? It is nice to picture the person you are praying about and to, whether the person be dead or alive. (and some people need that). If we picture this Jesus when we pray, I am sure it won’t really matter if when we get to heaven, he doesn’t look like that. Remember our parents and grandparents will not look like they did on earth, if they died in their old age. So we will have alot to adapt to. Although I believe it will all be completely natural for us.
After reading negative comments about the picture of “The First” I was expecting something sordid and expected to be shocked. After seeing it, all I saw was pure total innocence, Stunning!! Remember your first innocent love? or maybe it wasn’t innocent for you, or perhaps you feel guilty about something? Not sure why people think as they do, perhaps this world has also distorted our image of pureness too much!
About the pictures of Hindus in this work, I think someone mentioned. God needs to reach all people. Perhaps that picture will peek someones interest from another religion and Christ will reach them that way, We don’t know. “God makes a way where there seems to be no way.” ” All things work to the good of those who love the Lord,” even when it doesn’t look like it.
About the shroud, it is immaterial!! (pun intended.) If people think it is real maybe it is, if they don’t maybe it isn’t. Only God knows some things, for sure!
I just watched Heaven is 4 real and thought it awesome and Akiane’s picture is amazing, Last year I built a 8′ cross with a 2′ crown of thorns over it and one night about 11PM I was reading my Bible and asxked the Lord for the words to testify and three hours later woke up at 3AM and could not sleep and went to the kitchen and looked outside to see a full moon and I was moved to take photos of the cross with the moon and ran out to the barn, it was Oct 23rd and clear and cold outside and took it out and snapped 6 photos 10 to 15 seconds apart the first being clear the second a fog dropped into the picture, the third and forth a thickening fog started to swirl around the cross and in the fifth photo it formed into a pillar of cloud coming up from the ground behind the cross perfectly over the cross heading towards heaven “Beautiful” and the sixth photo it dissapeared, I use the photos to testify now and people are amazed as so am I still, if anyone would like a set write me and I will send you a set, just put “the cross” for the headliner for me to open it and you can use them for testifying too as I have given hundreds of copies for people to use in many churches, the chances of this happening at that moment over a cross no less is astranomical so it is very powerful. my address is all one word….. fortheking2010@aol.com God bless!
I only wish I could put the pictures of the cross here. fortheking
But Colton Burpo described Jesus as having red “markers” on the palms of his hands, whereas the image on the Shroud shows blood from wrist wounds. Any thoughts?
Colton was four. It was more than a year before he started to tell his parents what he’d seen. I believe Colton’s story, but I think there some things became fuzzy in his thinking by the time he told his parents about it. He is a preacher’s kid after all, so he was in Sunday School all the time. Maybe some images and memories got a little confused in his mind.
srs, as far as coltons mention of the markers being on his hands or wrist you have to acount to the fact that he was almost 4 years old and the word wrist may not have been embeded in his vocabulary as much as his hands which are the closest part of the body to the wrists short of the arm? maybe the best way he knew how to describe the markers was the hands, but I do think they may have hung people back then through the wrists as they didn’t have to wory about people working there way free by ripping thier hands through or just by their wieght they would fall away from the nails. I dont think with all the other comments colton made that we need to disect a word or two coming from a nearly 4 year old anyway.
Let’s let scripture settle it.
In the book of John, Chapter 20, we read the account of “Doubting” Thomas, one of the twelve disciples. After Jesus had risen, He appeared to the disciples. But Thomas was not with them at the time. When the other disciples told Thomas “We have seen the Lord”, Thomas replied (verse 25):
“Unless I see IN HIS HANDS the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails… I will not believe.” In Verse 27, Jesus tells Thomas, “Reach hither thy finger, and behold MY HANDS…”
I would never want to argue with the Word of God. Colton’s account lines up with scripture. And most traditional churches teach that the nails went into the palms of Jesus’ hands. Blood would also have run down from the hands onto the wrists. With all the physical brutality that Jesus suffered, I don’t doubt that his wrists were injured, as well.There was nary a part of His body that wasn’t scourged.
There is so much that we won’t know & understand until we get to Heaven. That is why childlike faith is required. We are to trust & believe, and not attempt to argue our way out of all He has done for us. Remember that it was the serpent who argued with Eve, and caused her to doubt, ultimately leading to her downfall.
It’s important to remember that our English Bible is a translation and some things are lost along the way. For example, the Hebrew language had no word for “Cousin”, I read that somewhere and they seemed to know what they were talking about. So the “brothers and sisters” of Christ might actually have been his cousins. The Catholic theory that Christ was an only child might be right, when we look at the original languages. James, the Lord’s brother, might have been a cousin instead.
Another thing to consider: the reason why the nails were put through the wrists is because the nails won’t hold if they’re put through the palms of the hands. Think of a skeleton with the long long fingers: there’s nothing but soft tissue that holds our hands and finger bones together. So if nails were put through the palms, they ripped out as the body sagged on the nails. The Romans did put the nails through the wrist, for that reason… so the nails would hold the body up on the cross.
If we knew more about the original languages, we might learn that hands and wrists were the same word or close enough that it didn’t matter. Or somebody translating Hebrew to Greek got confused and it’s been that way ever since… etc.
Ultimately, I don’t think it matters much. It would be nice if we could solve some of these discrepancies but how is anyone going to actually prove anything? Jesus Himself would have to appear among us to settle the question.
Annie, I had that very same thought as I was writing last night— that hands and wrists might have been considered part of the same thing.
The important thing for all of us to bear in mind, is not to get into dissension over trifles.
I think that most of us are on here because we enjoyed the Burpo’s book.
There always be those who will try to argue their way out of believing ANYTHING, but those of us who have faith must maintain unity & agreement in the basics, and not allow anything to derail our faith. And the point you made is since Jesus Himself hasn’t appeared among us in November 2011, we should focus on the main things, the ones that DO matter, and the ones that promote unity.
Akiane’s prince of peace is a man who modeled for her. Her story is on the hour of power segment. It will never add up to the Shroud of Turin.
Just finished the book “Heaven is for Real”. Such an amazing story. I’ve always been intrigued by NDE but even more so now. I’m finding myself wanting to pass on from this physical world just to experience the joy of Heaven the way Coltron Burpo did. If God wants me to “come back”, then He is not ready for me. May His will be done.
However, what bothers me about all the questions about “is God for real?”, “is His son for real?”, etc, etc, etc…. We all know what Jesus said to Thomas,,, so why not be blessed for believing even though one has not seen”. It’s certainly a better alternative. When you do believe (and I do) all thoughts about God,Jesus, Heaven become real in your heart and soul.
The physical life you lead, when you believe, makes you a better person and one who is trying to do God’s work. The blessings are abundant.
Although I’m a practicing Catholic, being a Christian and believer comes first. Let’s all love God and our neighbors as we are asked to do by the one who has given us eternal life, just for the asking.
Dearest AnnieCee, oh goodness. I am someone who found this site as I have the two paintings of Jesus by Akiane Kramarik and I also had a near-death experience. Somehow I think we are closer in our love of God than you think. And I truly admire your choice to be a passionate advocate for God :)
This forum is obviously not optimal for a conversation like this, but just to briefly respond to your latest note in this thread ..
Personally experiencing God does not result in “interpretation” of Truth as that is not the way of God. God IS faithful, gracious, and unchanging, not misleading or capricious. Although interpreting the words of God in the Bible, or any other text or thought, without direct conversation with God does result in infinite interpretations!
Also, God is neither passive nor distant as many believe, and spans all of the religions, philosophies, and sciences of this world. The amazing beauty of God is everywhere, yet historically, most of us have been unable to see this. Jesus happened to be one of the few human beings who walked this world as God without any veils.
While we are “in” this world, we are advised in the Bible to not be “of” this world. Who knows what this really means? I personally had no idea until God began revealing its meaning. And believe me, the reality of God is beyond our wildest dreams. Nothing of this world is what we ‘think’.
Anyway, you, and others here, may be interested in an infomentary called “The Star of Bethlehem” as well as the accounts documented in this film: http://bit.ly/oz8L1o . They provide further expansions to our notions of God, from the Christian perspective, and I hope they bring further enlightenment, or at minimum, greatly add to the mystery ;)
My deepest prayer is for all to experience who they really are. Until then, Mark 12:28-34.
In love and gratitude ♥
Yes, that link is interesting. I know that there were many MANY miraculous events worldwide during a period of time from 1967-68 to 1974-75: a period of approximately 7 years. Personally I have wondered if these events began happening after the 6 Day War in Israel when the Jews gained control of Jerusalem. The 6 Day War was June 5 -10 in 1967. That’s the only significant event I can think of that might explain those 7 years. There were also a lot of miracles that happened during the 6 Day War.
God spans all religions… Not sure what you mean by that. Mostly I’m annoyed that people want to make it out that there’s more than one Savior, and according to Jesus Himself, that’s just not true. Jesus is the only Way. In Colton’s book, the child is so adamant that people must know Jesus before they die! I love that part.
If we try to figure out ahead of time how God will handle Judgment Day, our frail brains come up with all kinds of strange theories. I think we should leave it alone before we say something silly. We know God will be fair about it.
God spans all religions… I can agree with this to a degree. Not that God represents or is part of all religions, but rather: that God is ABOVE all religions. And I say that in it’s most ironic sense. He is above it all, beyond it all… so far above and beyond that God has nothing to do with any of them. What God looks at is His Only Son and those who follow Him. Jesus didn’t come to start a Religion: Jesus said over and over that He wanted us to have a relationship with His Father.
Even Christianity can become a mere “religion” if it’s followers engage in legalism instead of relationship.
I have read “Heaven is For Real”, and was very moved by this testimony. I was equally moved by the testimony in “23 Minutes in Hell”. If you’ve read one, please read the other. The main point of both books is that “GOD LOVES YOU”. After a brain anyerism and a few stroke before I hit 42, I am not afraid of death and I can’t wait to finally “go home” and meet Him myself.
That sounds very interesting! I will look it up, thanks. And I agree with you: heaven looks better and better every day! :)
On October 11 of this year, I lost my youngest son. He was 33. I begged God to please let him live, to take me instead. Please Lord just let him come home like he always did. When we got home, I was told to go and lay down and rest. I went to Haven’s room and sat where he always sat on his bed. I cried and I begged God not to take him. Please Lord let him come home. I heard a voice that said “He is home.” I heard the song “Peace in The Valley.” Haven had longed for peace in his life. I saw Jesus on the left side of Haven with his arm around him. They were walking into a bright light. They face each other as they walked. Talking like old friends.Haven patted his right back pocket, a habit of his to make sure he had his wallet. I saw a big smile, a smile of happiness, a smile of peace on his face. I still miss him so much and I love him. I am at peace knowing that he is with our lord.
He Lives!
I had an experience 4 years ago. I wasnt feeling well so i layed down on the sofa. I remember my head spinning, then things went dark, then slowly there was a dim light and it started to grow brighter and brighter. Then i was walking in what seemed like clouds, i looked up and in front of me were these huge gates with scrolled designs all over it. Up in the left corner i saw what looked like a neon sign and it would fade from saying Heaven to fading out, then fade back and saying exit. I still dont understand that. I walked thru the gates and walked in these clouds, as i was walking i noticed more peoplle around me. Then suddenly i was pulled into what i still call a worm hole, i remember going realy fast in all sorts of directions, i could feel the wind on me and even the mist from clouds, and i remember lights flashing as i went thru. It was so awesome!! Then i was let down and standing in a street and there were hundreds of people walking along with me to a town just in front of us. I remember i saw my Grandmothers and Grandfathers and other family members. I remember my mom saying “I saw Judy Goodall, and she is so beautiful now” . (Judy was a friend that had passed away 12 years ago). I remember seeing my dad. And i remember seeing a man in a white robe walking along with us, somehow i knew who he was (Jesus). People were talking but i couldnt realy make out what they were saying. Then we were in a small town. I walked around it looking for my friend Rich, i went into stores, resturants, houses but couldnt find him. I remember sitting in this HUGE library and a big book was open on the table in front of me and i remember seeing names and dates. Then i got up went outside and thats when i realized how quiet it was, no car motors no horns no humming fans, you could hear birds chirping and dogs barking lightly. I walked up a small hill thru a beautiful park, then walked up to an old man operating a jackhammer, but it didnt make any noise. I asked him where i am and he said “Your neither here nor there, your in the land in between” (some how it made sense). I walked a little more just amazed at the unsual quiet and looking at how beautiful it was there. Then i woke up. I was covered in what looked like a light mist and gasping for breath. and i remember i wanted to go back to that place soooo badly.
Wow, that’s quite an experience, Michael. A vision, or a near-death experience? I just have to ask if you went to see your doctor after that and got checked out.
Annie~ My Sister-in-Law wondered the same thing, because of my symptoms for having to lay down. I really believe i went somewhere else.. there is more to my story. There was sooo much more i saw that day, i didn’t know how many words we could write on here to tell of our experiences. To me i had to have left this world, because i never got to meet my Grandmother on my mothers side, she died a year before i was born. But i knew her face, i described her to my mom and mom started crying and told me that yes that was her. I remember there was the most awesome gold color to the sky, yet the clouds were such beautiful shades of blue and white. When i have time i will add more to this life changing experience i had.
Well .. . . I just finished reading the Burpo’s book. I don’t know exactly why I am here right now but I do have a feeling it is God’s doing. I’m not even sure what, exactly, I am wanting or needing to say. I have been close to Jesus in my heart and spirit for a very long time. I am almost 53 years old. I am just so jaded by “Christians” and “church” and the struggles of this world. Becoming like little children without presumptions and prideful thoughts that make folks think they “know” God and have something up on others seems so foreign to many people who call themselves Christians. In fact, I don’t know how some folks think they do really love and know God when they are so far from LOVE. If they could only see how evident it is to a child that they are missing the mark. It makes me want to scream! I just don’t want to be clumped into that sect of people. I have a feeling that some may respond to me that this is the way of the world and the pharisees and hypocrits but somehow (and I don’t know how that is) but somehow, God wants to set the world right on Who He really is and what Love is and that there is a Voice rising up to speak the Truth. The world is just not getting it! God’s love and grace is so profound, so extreme, so magnificent. A child has a humble heart. A child doesn’t think they know it all. Here’s to God bringing us down to that place and to being people who live there, now and forever. Colton talked about the Holy Spirit being real, too, and that His power comes out to us. Lord, that Your people will be humble to ask for it. Peace.
Yes, Jesus did say that “a little child will lead them.” Colton does provide the “basics” in this book… there were some things that he was particularly intent on saying. One thing that was especially important: we MUST know Jesus. Also, that Jesus REALLY loves the children!
I’m not sure any of us can truly know what love is until we have made an effort to read about and know Jesus Christ. I hear people talking about Love and the need for more Love, but which of us even cracks our Bible open to find out what Jesus had to say about Love?
AnnieCee,
I think that Love and knowing Jesus is kind of like which came first? The chicken or the egg? Making efforts to do something never brought me closer to God. It was His love that drew me and continues to draw me. Not everyone is going to have a Bible to read but the Word became flesh and so I believe He has a way of making Himself known – even when we are not looking. <3
Yes, I’ve heard of Jesus appearing to Muslims in “closed” countries. I heard about an entire village becoming Christians because one of the elders in the village had a vision that Jesus visited him. This was reported by reputable missionaries, so it’s very exciting.
I’ve had some problems in churches that I attended too. What happened was completely inexcusable. I left two churches because of bullies. And I’m really sick of the so-called “prophets” too. Jesus wants us to know Him on our own, not rely on words that others think they have for us. And not all their prophecies come true, so what does that tell you?
The Charismatic renewal started out as a true visitation of God in the late 60’s, and it was precious and it happened worldwide. I think it’s embarrassing that today’s Charismatics are associated with that sweet move of God in any way.
My folks are elderly and it’s hard for them to get out, so we watch Pastor David Jeremiah’s “In Touch” program on tv now. I highly recommend it. He also has a website. I can’t see anything questionable about that ministry: the teaching is relevant, interesting and completely Bible-based and it’s not weird. We’ve been very grateful to have “real” church right in our home. For fellowship, I get together with Christian friends.
Of course it’s best if you can find a good church to attend but many people are alienated from church now. Christians can be awful, but we ARE a work in progress and it’s important to think of that and I try not to be bitter about the past. God is always faithful and I’m so grateful for that.
My church supports missionaries in Turkey, and one week we watched a video re-enactment of a true story that occurred in Turkey. Jesus appeared to a leader in a Muslim community, a man who beat his wife and had other vices. Jesus called the man by name, and said “you are mine.” The Lord touched the man’s chest in the area of his heart, and it left a permanent impression of the Jesus’ handprint seared on the man’s chest. Many salvations occurred because of the man’s testimony & changed life! (The handprint played a big role, too, of course!)
AnnieCee, who hasn’t had problems with churches? Be it because of people who are judgmental, controlling, prideful, jealous, cliquish, cruel, selfish, gossipy, or whatever. Whenever God has a special calling or purpose for someone, guess who Satan jumps in & uses to offend the believer, and cause them to stumble? Other people. It is to your credit that you are still standing with your faith in God intact! NOBODY has the power to snatch you from God’s hand!
My church is a mess right now— we recently lost 800 people. but I am loyally “staying put” and praying, as God winnows out the chaff & brings revival and renewal amongst those who remain. I supplement my spiritual feedings by listening to Dr. David Jeremiah’s radio program “Turning Point”, and I agree he is really “spot on” in his teachings. What is great about his messages is how easily they are applied to real life.
You spoke of ppl being alienated from church now. The Bible speaks about a falling away in the last days. And, it IS hard to find a good Bible-based church that teaches truth. I have heard that Internet Church is the next big wave that is starting. As for me, since I am in a “real life” church which is far less than perfect, what works is keeping my eyes on Jesus and not on the people. And, like you, I can’t allow the past to hold me back, if I want to grow & move forward. I could so relate to & identify with all your comments! God bless you & your parents, and I’m glad you found a solution that works for you. God bless David Jeremiah, too!
them to stumble? Other people.
Leina, thank you for your reply, I appreciate that. And I got the name of David Jeremiah’s ministry wrong: it’s “Turning Point”, thank you for correcting it.
The “In Touch” ministry is Dr. Charles Stanley and I like him too. Both are good. I’ve been especially impressed with Dr. Jeremiah in the past year.
That is his face I have seen that face to at least twice in a dream but i want to say somthing she Could get stuff from more then god you know rember Satan appears as a angel of light.She and others need to be carful and desern rember there are two sides not just one.I know where all opening up to new things but rember to decern . Rember the garden and the tree and the snake . Dont forget test every Spirit and lesson to the Holy spirit when you dont think somthing is right, please and dont forget your bible. I am saying yes that is him and i agree with the story but rember that there are others we are told to reember that can sneek in if we do not test the spirit and know the truth jesus and his word like the bible says, Please be careful , love in christ your sister<Breyle
He simply wants you to know Him and to know that He loves you. He loves you so much He sent His son to save you.
I have had an interesting life. Not yet turning 40 but feeling like I am 100. My father was killed when I was 8. My mother has been married 7 times. I was molested for years. So bad that it has affected me in my adult life. My mother was addicted to drugs and alcohol. My neighbor insisted that I attend church as a child and that was how I was introduced to religion. I had a car accident at 17 and was pronounced dead during a life flight. To their amazement after several minutes of no oxygen my heart tried to beat. After many hours of heart, abdomen and other areas of surgery I was put on life support. My mother was told that there was no brain activity and that I would not survive. With no insurance they asked if they could take me off the support. My mom begged to leave me on it. Long story short after lots of rehab I walked out of that hospital. I have some problems but brain activity is not one of them. I was in a horrible abusive marriage straight out of high school. I struggled as a single parent once I finally became strong enough to leave. Somehow I always have made it back to church. I can not quote the bible and I am learning something new everyday. I did not have any heavenly experiences while I was “out”. Or atleast that I remember. I really wish that I had so that I would know WHY did he send me back to this earth!!!!??????? Is there a limit as to how much one can be put through?? I believe in God. Even though I have been through so much……more than I have listed……I still believe. I do not know if it is because I pray for a better life or something is just evident to my mind that God is real. I will keep trying to find the reason for my continued existence on this earth………
Oops, my reply ended up in the wrong place. This page is getting confusing!! :)
I think God is reaching out to you, too, Michelle. That’s why you are so convinced God is real, and He cares about you.
One of my friends has a similar history, her life is a long series of tragedies and traumas and injuries. Her longing for love got her into several bad relationships, some of which she was lucky to survive. Two years ago she married a man who is very sweet and kind, a good Christian guy with a reputation for being steady and reliable. . I figured God would do this for her eventually because she really needs to know what it’s like to be in a decent family. And by the time she found this man, a lot of the ginger had been knocked out of her so she wasn’t looking for excitement anymore, she just wanted peace.
I noticed that she didn’t know how to be “normal” because of the bizarre life she’d had. Now she’s very grateful for the peace of being in a quiet, normal relationship.
When Adam & Eve ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, the serpent was right about some things. He said they would become like God, knowing good and evil. I believe this is possibly our Quest in Life, the purpose for our existance. You have encountered evil and you know what it is. There is some wisdom in knowing this, especially if God helps to process those horrible experiences so they turn into wisdom.
You also need to understand what Goodness is… and the word “good” is so much more rich than we realize it is. The Bible says that only God is good. The little bit we know about “goodness” is only the tip of the iceberg you might say: it’s only a teeny glimpse into the immense goodness of God.
I found this website just now, because I love the book of Hebrews where it talks about how God does everything “Better.” A better Way, a better Covenant etc.
http://www.messianic-literary.com/hebrews.htm
That’s a messianic Jewish site which is kinda cool. I thought the outline he provided was a good start on reading Hebrews in light of knowing something BETTER. YES, God has a BETTER plan for your life!
Thank you. I feel always drawn to follow God. My now husband was brought up in the Jehovah Witness back ground and his mother disassosiated herself after his teens and it caused conflict for the family. She said she knew that faith was wrong while raising him but couldn’t bring herself to stop. So when I asked him to go to a baptist church he was VERY apprehensive not really believing in anything. After many years he has come to know Christ. I have to think that maybe I was to show him to the path. I have many things to be thankful for but on the other hand I am always wondering why I was put through all that I have. I guess in the end everything will work out. I will stay true to what I feel is the truth. Thank you for the kind words.
I’ve been asking “Why?” a lot, myself, lately. Trying to make sense of a lot of things. I do think that people who have always had it good, always had the best, always been provided for: it seems that such people don’t have as much to offer those who are hurting.
Jesus can identify with us in all our sorrows, because of the things he suffered. He can weep with those who weep. The cross we bear is possibly preparing us, training us to provide “first aid” for wounded souls too.
Pain and loss are truly the fires God uses to refine the soul to greater luster. This is how God converts the past into treasure worth having.
Emily Dickson wrote, “If I can say one word in season, or soothe one pain, or help one fainting robin into its nest again: I have not lived in vain.”
Funny thing…I actually have begun to think that I was put through some things so that I can be sympathetic with others in that situation. I feel that I have helped a few people along the way. I guess the pain has not been in vain. I just wonder what it would be like to be “normal”. If there is such a thing. I know we are to live by faith but I would have loved for my near death experience to come along with a vision or some kind encouraging words. I feel selfish for saying it. I am jealous of the ones that have had some sort of vision.
My Mom said exactly the same thing yesterday. She nearly died when she was 16, in a bad car wreck. It was a prayer group hundreds of miles away that prayed her through. Her parents got saved because of it, they knew the prayer group made all the difference.
But Mom wishes she had some special vision or something for herself… she’s jealous of those who do. :)
I heard recently that “normal” is only a setting on the washing machine… !
I feel like your mom. I guess my faith is just being tested. It’s funny….I have never doubted that Jesus is real. It seems it has been instilled in me and something that I can not change. Even when I was away from the church in my early 20s I always had this voice telling me that something was wrong and that I needed to get back into church!
Michelle, I can relate to much of what you describe about your life and had that same thought (why did I come back?). My experiences included disfigurement and impairments from childhood injuries, uninvolved parents, dysfunctional relationships and abusive marriage, and a near-fatal accident resulting in amnesia, brain injury, and long-term cognitive, nervous system, and structural damage. I did have “near-death experiences” with the last injury, yet seeing beyond the physical impairments was very difficult. At 40, I too felt 100 — alone, successful career terminated overnight, extremely frail and weak with little understanding about why I returned and what this (seemingly) crazy life here was even about.
After seeking healing from nearly every traditional, alternative, and spiritual treatment possible, God graciously began revealing to me what true healing, and life, is about. And suffice to say, what is being revealed is far and away beyond anything I could have ever imagined.
The best advice I could offer is to continue trusting your truth, and go deeper within yourself for all the answers you seek. Massive shifts in our world and human consciousness have been happening for the past few decades and God is revealing to EVERY one right now. And while many share similarities in experiences and resonate with similar messages, each of our paths to Truth are unique. As you are already sensing, if/when you experience Truth, you will definitely know it beyond any doubt.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYOYqIdg0yU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8EoFESw4iY
Love .. Thy Will Be Done ♥
Thank you Michele for your story. I am sorry you have experienced all that. I keep trudging forward no matter what. And just like this site that I decided to take part in I have some sort of sign everyday that Jesus is real. Things do not just work out the way that some things have. I learn something one day that becomes knowledge that I will need another day. We will all know our purpose one day. Some I guess are later than others!!
Michelle, my heart SO goes out to you right now. Independent of purpose, the perceptions I held of my former “hard” life story have completely shifted, and I pray that very soon you too will shift from feeling you are “trudging forward” to feeling like you are dancing!
The great news is, absolutely nothing is “wrong”. We are all being perfectly guided and we have never, ever been alone. While the words in Footprints in the Sand imply there could be two sets of footprints, that is not the case. We are never separate from Love, from when we arrive to when we depart, and perceiving the time in between as a special and unique adventure can be most helpful!
Love ♥
I can not wait until He returns. Until then I will hold a candle for Him. Thank you for the kind words and I will trudge on. I know that everything happens for a reason…..just I wish I knew what the game plan was!!
Little Colton was particularly adamant about two things in particular: 1. WE NEED TO KNOW JESUS and 2. JESUS LOVES THE CHILDREN
I think these two things are certainly a good map to start with. The reason why I keep pointing to Jesus, waving people toward Jesus, talking about Jesus… is because everything starts with JESUS.
Michele mentions all the wonderful things that we begin to understand, realize, the stuff that DAWNS on us, when we have had an encounter with God. It’s not possible to put it into words. Whatever happened to her, she’s STILL floating around on God’s love. Something similar happened to my father when he got saved, and he still can’t find the words to convey what he wants people to understand about God’s love!
If we could have mystical experiences anytime we want, we’d probably all be camped out in church 24/7 because people want to know that joy all the time, every day.
But the only real way to know the Joy and Peace is to press ON in knowing Jesus. Just as Colton was relentless in preaching his 2 little messages, so we should be relentless in pursuing what Jesus wants from us. From ME. To be relentless in what Jesus wants of ME.
No doubt that Akiane is very talented, but I do believe that she painted Bruce Marchiano (actor) (www.marchianoministries.com) as Jesus (when he played the role of Jesus in the movie “Gospel according to Matthew”. Search the web for of him!!!
I honetly do not believe that anyone can go to heaven and come back they might see visions or have dreams but they cant go to heaven and then come back because if you listened closely to that testimony he could only see with one eye and if you go to heaven you are perfect because heaven is PERFECT if you really want to know if that is true read the book of Revelation in the Bible
Well, he wasn’t actually completely dead yet so maybe that explains it.
I try not to dismiss the testimony of others because it is, after all, their own testimony.
Abraham made it clear to the rich man in hell that the testimony of the prophets was enough, if that didn’t convince the rich man’s brothers then nothing would. My point in mentioning that Bible story is this: Abraham told the rich man that the TESTIMONY of others was all that the Living would get, and it was ENOUGH.
So I think a testimony is something that should be respected because God gives personal testimonies quite an endorsement in that story.
Yes, we do need to discern for ourselves what is true or not, and if you’re not comfortable with it then that’s your choice too. And it’s better to err on the safe side I suppose, than be taken in by every con that comes down the pike.
Anything is possible with God, remember Enoch (Genesis 5:24 And Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him.) and Elijah ( 2 Kings 2:11 Then it happened, as they continued on and talked, that suddenly a chariot of fire appeared with horses of fire, and separated the two of them; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven.) Were these men perfect, probaly not. If it was a vision or they actually went, it’s still amazing.
Then again they haven’t come back.
i loved reading this book and i ask God to bless us all,i can’t wait to see God and i pray that he makes it possible for us all to meet him.God bless u all.
I’ve been thinking about this, the gold color sky. It sounds so pretty!
I was looking at clouds in the east yesterday; huge puffy white clouds and tinged with blue, with the sunset in the west making them pink and gold too. I don’t know why there would be clouds in heaven, but they are so beautiful maybe that’s enough reason. :)
But if you remember the old man i talked to, told me i was “Inbetween” so that could easily explain the clouds where i was at. i dont think we go right to heaven when we pass away, that would defy the need for christ coming back for us.. i think we “Wait” in another place til we are all called home. I think to tho that Heaven would have clouds since they are a beautiful creation of God, i think we all have looked at clouds in awe at some point in our lives..
Yes, the Bible isn’t clear how things “work” after we die. Jesus told the thief on the cross that they would be together in Paradise, which is possibly the “holding place” that you mention… A “holding place” that you describe is supported by Scripture and it’s called Paradise.
Jesus said that the rich man suffered in Torment after he died, whereas Lazarus was comforted at Abraham’s bosom (which some scholars think is the same as Paradise mentioned in other places in the Bible.)
I also read in Revelation recently that Jesus tells most of the people who are waiting for Jesus to set up his eternal Kingdom that they must wait and REST until the Millenium is over– that’s when everything with the devil will be settled once and for all. Then we will all go with Jesus to wherever we are going. (A vacation of 1000 years in Paradise sounds really good to me.)
One of the prophets also mentions being caught up to the 7th Heaven, which is apparently the very special place where God the Father is. So heavens has LEVELS? That’s interesting too.
I think if anybody believes that they can truly figure out what’s happening over there on the other side, they would have to invent or fabricate a lot of it because the Bible is vague about the afterlife. And the Bible doesn’t spell out a clear picture of the End Times either — It can drive you crazy trying to understand what Revelation means. (But the Bible says that we do get a Blessing just for reading Revelation anyway!)
— Basically, we can look forward to GOOD things if we know Jesus.
— Basically, we know that hell and punishment and Hades are all very terrible and we want to do what we can to avoid them.
— Basically: we know that Jesus wins because we’ve read the end of the Story.
Apparently these are things God wants us to be sure of. The rest of the tidbits are “appetizers.” :)
I absolutely loved reading, “Heaven is for Real.” One of the things that intrigued me was Colton meeting his sister in heaven. My brother, who was 19, died almost 8 years ago from a skiing accident. I have had many dreams of my brother since then, some I believe are from God. One of my most vivid dreams was about a year and half after my brother died. In my dream, I was napping on the couch, and I woke up to see my brother sitting in a chair with two little children sitting on his lap. I asked my brother if they were my new siblings and he said, “yes.” The children looked almost like twins, both with blonde hair and blue eyes, (and fluffy cheeks, I made sure to check for that :) ). I told my mom about my dream about a month after it happened, and she said that she had two miscarriages within 2 years of each other. I knew that my mom had one miscarriage before I had my dream, but I never knew that she had two until she told me. I look forward to seeing my brother again and meeting my two “new siblings” in heaven someday!
That’s an awesome story, Stephanie. Very amazing to think about. What a comfort for your family.
If you like this stuff you should read Dr. Morse, a renowned Pediatrician in the Seattle, Washington area. He has done a 15 year exhaustive study on NDE’s with children only and it’s amazing!!
This site just “found me” and I’m so glad! I read “Heaven Is For Real” and do believe this special child saw and told about his experiences in the way he perceived them. I think adults tend to over-analyze. Yes, I am guilty too. I looked at the picture and felt the man was maybe a little “too handsome” for Jesus. The Bible describes him as being common looking, not someone that would attract people due to his looks, but because of his message. Yet, who am I to say what Colton saw? Two people can see the same thing and describe it differently. To me, it doesn’t matter if there is a picture of Jesus…..or Noah’s Ark is found. We are blessed, because we “believe without seeing.” I really think that if we have faith, we don’t need justification by our five senses…..and for some who do not believe, no amount of physical “proof” will convince them otherwise. About a week before my husband passed away, I felt he was sort of “in-between” this world and heaven. He appeared to be talking to people at times. He said the word “baby” a few times. I was a little confused about that. All of the sudden I felt in my heart, that he was speaking of the “baby” that I miscarried in 1998. When I told my stepdaughter, she also felt he was seeing heaven and that baby ( I was about 3 months pregnant when it happened…like Colton’s mom). He forms us in the womb, right? Little Colton’s description of seeing the baby in Heaven really brought peace to me.