The Message by Lance Richardson and The Burning Within by Ranelle Wallace

Have you ever read a book about a near-death experience? I have read two, and they have been life-changing books for me.

The Message by Lance Richardson

Lance had been through one medical problem after another. One Christmas morning, while testing out a new motorcycle for the kids, he was in an accident. The hospital put him in a coma while his body recovered.

While in a coma, Lance was able to visit the Spirit World, where he conversed with friends and family who had passed on.

He was also able, at times, to return to the Earth to be near his family. He saw how deceased members of his family were involved in the lives of those he loved.

I have felt the presence and support of deceased loved ones in my life, as well. I enjoyed reading about how it works.

The Burning Within by RaNelle Wallace

RaNelle and Terry Wallace were in a plane crash. Terry walked away with only minor burns, but RaNelle was severely burned. Hours after the crash, she died. Her account of the heavens is beautifully written and inspiring. She speaks of the overpowering love of God and man.

I reflect on the following quote often: "...I was seeing my entire life...Entirety does not describe the fullness of this review. It included knowledge about myself, that all the books in the world couldn't contain. I understood every reason for everything I did in my life. And I also understood the impact I had on others."

She goes on to give accounts of people she helped in life and others who she failed to help. This section of the book has helped me look outside myself and seek out opportunities to be God's hand in this life.

The Burning Within is not only a Near-Death Experience. It is a story of love, overcoming the unimaginable, and of RaNelle finding herself. The NDE is actually a relatively small portion of the book.

Both of these books have helped me have an eternal perspective. They have helped me stop and think about how the things I do influence others. I am grateful to have read them. They aren’t perfect books, and of course they are not on the level of scripture, but they have changed my life for the better.