Picture a small-town pastor whose life took a heavenly turn, captivating millions with a story of faith and the afterlife—meet Todd Burpo! As the author of the bestselling Heaven is for Real, Burpo transformed his son Colton’s near-death experience into a global phenomenon, inviting readers to ponder eternity through a child’s eyes. His heartfelt narrative blends spirituality, family, and wonder, making him a unique voice in Christian literature.
From his roots in Imperial, Nebraska, Burpo’s journey as a pastor, volunteer fireman, and storyteller reflects a life grounded in service and belief. His work challenges skeptics and believers alike, sparking conversations about heaven, hope, and the power of a child’s testimony.
The Making of Todd Burpo
Born in 1968, Todd Burpo grew up in the heartland of America, where faith and community shaped his worldview. A graduate of Oklahoma Wesleyan University with a degree in theology, he was ordained as a pastor in 1994, leading Crossroads Wesleyan Church in Imperial. Beyond the pulpit, Burpo’s diverse roles as a volunteer firefighter, garage door business owner, and wrestling coach showcased his commitment to serving others. These experiences grounded him in the real-world struggles of his congregation, setting the stage for his unexpected leap into authorship.
When his three-year-old son, Colton, faced a life-threatening ruptured appendix in 2003, Burpo’s faith was tested. Colton’s recovery and subsequent revelations about visiting heaven during surgery became the catalyst for Burpo’s writing career, turning a personal miracle into a shared story of hope.
Todd Burpo’s Unforgettable Stories
Burpo’s breakout work, Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back (2010), co-authored with Lynn Vincent, became a cultural touchstone. The book recounts Colton’s vivid descriptions of heaven—meeting Jesus, sitting on his lap, and encountering deceased relatives, including a sister lost to miscarriage. Its simple, heartfelt prose and childlike perspective resonated with readers, selling over 10 million copies and inspiring a 2014 film that grossed $101 million.
Burpo followed with Heaven Changes Everything (2012), a devotional exploring how Colton’s experience reshaped family life and faith. He also co-authored God Is for Real (2017), a broader reflection on God’s presence in everyday life. His writing style is conversational and accessible, weaving theological insights with personal anecdotes. Themes of faith, love, and the afterlife dominate, offering comfort to those grappling with loss or doubt.
While critics have debated the theological implications of Colton’s visions, Burpo’s books stand out for their emotional authenticity. They invite readers to embrace a childlike faith, making complex spiritual questions feel approachable and real.
Why Todd Burpo Matters
Todd Burpo’s impact lies in his ability to bridge skepticism and belief, sparking global conversations about the afterlife. His books have comforted countless readers, particularly those mourning loved ones, by offering a glimpse of heaven’s promise. The Heaven is for Real phenomenon also highlighted the “heaven tourism” genre, though Burpo’s work remains distinct for its focus on a child’s perspective and its roots in personal experience.
Burpo’s legacy extends beyond literature. As a pastor and speaker, he continues to inspire audiences, sharing messages of hope and resilience. His story reminds us that faith can emerge from life’s darkest moments, resonating in an era hungry for spiritual connection.
About Todd Burpo
- Born: 1968, United States
- Key Works: Heaven is for Real (2010), Heaven Changes Everything (2012), God Is for Real (2017)
- Awards: Platinum and Diamond Sales Awards from the Evangelical Christian Booksellers Association
- Fun Fact: Burpo is a volunteer firefighter and former wrestling coach.
Snag Heaven is for Real and dive into Todd Burpo’s heartfelt world of faith and wonder! Whether you’re a believer or just curious, his story will leave you pondering the mysteries of eternity.