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Miracle for Jen: A Tragic Accident, a Mother's Desperate Prayer, and Heaven's Extraordinary Answer
One minute can change your whole life . The Barrick family’s life was irrevocably changed when a drunk driver careened into their van at eighty miles an hour. The entire family was hurt―but fifteen-year-old Jennifer’s injuries were so devastating that paramedics thought she had no chance to live. As Jen lay in a coma, her mother, Linda, pleaded with God to heal Jen from her severe brain trauma―to let her daughter be “normal.” When Jen finally awoke, however, it became clear that normal would have to be redefined. She seemed to have gained a new capacity―perhaps a miraculous one―for connecting with God.
Was this the miracle Linda had prayed for? If so, was it enough? Could she trust God with Jen’s future in the wake of the accident? Could she trust in His love for them all? Discover how God turned normal into extraordinary in this transformational story of hope and love. Now includes bonus chapter with updates on the Barrick family and amazing new stories about Miracle for Jen ’s impact in the world!
Was this the miracle Linda had prayed for? If so, was it enough? Could she trust God with Jen’s future in the wake of the accident? Could she trust in His love for them all? Discover how God turned normal into extraordinary in this transformational story of hope and love. Now includes bonus chapter with updates on the Barrick family and amazing new stories about Miracle for Jen ’s impact in the world!
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
40 people are currently reading
841 people want to read
About the author
Linda Barrick
10 books14 followersLINDA BARRICK is a wife, mother, Bible teacher, and founder of Hope Out Loud Ministries. Her daily radio feature, Hope Out Loud is heard on 733 stations in the US, Canada, and overseas. She is the author of Miracle for Jen, Beauty Marks and Total Bliss Bible study. Linda's passion is to share the Gospel and disciple women to fall more in love with Jesus. She lives in Lynchburg, VA with her husband Andy of thirty years and their two children, Jen and Josh.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
March 11, 2012
Sometimes life can change in an instant. The plans that we had laid out in front of us, the goals in life we had hoped to achieve, even a simple dinner plan with friends can be changed in the blink of an eye. That is just what happened to the Barrick family. One minute they were on their way home from an event at church where they watched their daughter, Jen sing in the church choir and preparing for dinner at their house to celebrate with family and friends. However when a drunk driver slammed into their mini van at 80 mph head on, what they would be left with would be considered a miracle.
In the novel, Miracle for Jen by Linda Barrick and John Perry, the reader is taken on a fateful journey that forever changed the lives of not only the Barrick family, but for every single person to be impacted by their story that is captured from start to finish in the beautiful memoir. What would later be a series of miracles that began from before the accident to years later, this book will take you on a walk with angels and with God as He carefully orchestrates a plan to use Jen's life in a very powerful way. This will change your walk with God and also show you just how powerful our prayers can be and they really do communicate with Jesus and His Father.
I don't think anyone who reads this book will ever be the same again. I personally have never encounter a teenagers faith as strong as Jen's prior to her accident and even more so afterwards. This has renewed my faith and increased my prayer life. I will never take things for granted again and will be working to make my own personal walk with God more diligent and powerful. I think that is exactly what Jen and God had planned in the most unexpected ways.
This is the journey of Jen's spiritual walk even before her accident, how she found God in her recovery efforts when she couldn't remember her mom's name but remember her favorite scriptures and songs of praise and worship. When her efforts at speech seemed futile, her prayers to God in the company of those who heard her, showed that Jen has a unique relationship with God that not only walked through that valley with friends and family but helped her see His purpose in it all.
I received Miracle for Jen compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review and have to say it's a must read for anyone wanting to know what faith looks like. There are many pictures of before and after the accident and for Jen and her family to be alive at all, is a miracle in itself. This one rates a 5 out of 5 stars in my personal opinion and I can't wait for you to read about Jen's story!
In the novel, Miracle for Jen by Linda Barrick and John Perry, the reader is taken on a fateful journey that forever changed the lives of not only the Barrick family, but for every single person to be impacted by their story that is captured from start to finish in the beautiful memoir. What would later be a series of miracles that began from before the accident to years later, this book will take you on a walk with angels and with God as He carefully orchestrates a plan to use Jen's life in a very powerful way. This will change your walk with God and also show you just how powerful our prayers can be and they really do communicate with Jesus and His Father.
I don't think anyone who reads this book will ever be the same again. I personally have never encounter a teenagers faith as strong as Jen's prior to her accident and even more so afterwards. This has renewed my faith and increased my prayer life. I will never take things for granted again and will be working to make my own personal walk with God more diligent and powerful. I think that is exactly what Jen and God had planned in the most unexpected ways.
This is the journey of Jen's spiritual walk even before her accident, how she found God in her recovery efforts when she couldn't remember her mom's name but remember her favorite scriptures and songs of praise and worship. When her efforts at speech seemed futile, her prayers to God in the company of those who heard her, showed that Jen has a unique relationship with God that not only walked through that valley with friends and family but helped her see His purpose in it all.
I received Miracle for Jen compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review and have to say it's a must read for anyone wanting to know what faith looks like. There are many pictures of before and after the accident and for Jen and her family to be alive at all, is a miracle in itself. This one rates a 5 out of 5 stars in my personal opinion and I can't wait for you to read about Jen's story!
April 16, 2012
This book touched me profoundly which is what makes writing this review so hard , because how do you write a review about a book that rocks you to the core? , how can you properly convey that? I'm going to try to the best of my ability to explain what is so great about this book. Miracle Jen to me was a modern relive story of Job. Many people believe that now days Miracle only happen to in the Bible, but after reading Miracle Jen and seeing what this family persevered through , I don't know anyone can not believe in miracles.
As I read through this story , I became connected this with the family . They laid their hearts out in this book and showed their faith as well as there frailties. I loved how Jen's journals were shared as she began her quest for boldness before she ever was in the accident, it was a great insight and really shows you a bit of what God said " ask and you shall receive." God took what could have been a tragic and turned it into a Miracle . The pictures in this book shocked me and amazed me. Seeing the car and how mangled it was , their is no doubt that God's hand was upon this family that night and spared them to do great things.
The miracles didn't stop with just the survival of the family , but continued into their recovery. This book was that of faith and family in the middle of what could have been heartbreak . According to doctor's Jen should not have woken up like she did if not at all , it was incredible to read how clear her faith in God was , how she never once stumbled when God put the words into her mouth . I'm glad that I was able to see how the family dealt with all that was going on , I know as a mother its so very hard for us not to fix the pain when it comes to our children being hurt. It can be very hard to lose that control considering we think we know whats best for our kids , but in this book you get to see how a mother has to be reminded that there is a God that is bigger than we are and who better than to take care of our children than the one who created them .
I recommend , no scratch that, I dare you to read this book .. I dare you to embrace the fact that miracles still happen. I hope this book envelopes you the way it did me and that is changes the way you look at faith and perhaps Miracle Jen will effect you like it has so many others.
(I was in no way compensated for my review other than receiving the book , all opinions are my own )
As I read through this story , I became connected this with the family . They laid their hearts out in this book and showed their faith as well as there frailties. I loved how Jen's journals were shared as she began her quest for boldness before she ever was in the accident, it was a great insight and really shows you a bit of what God said " ask and you shall receive." God took what could have been a tragic and turned it into a Miracle . The pictures in this book shocked me and amazed me. Seeing the car and how mangled it was , their is no doubt that God's hand was upon this family that night and spared them to do great things.
The miracles didn't stop with just the survival of the family , but continued into their recovery. This book was that of faith and family in the middle of what could have been heartbreak . According to doctor's Jen should not have woken up like she did if not at all , it was incredible to read how clear her faith in God was , how she never once stumbled when God put the words into her mouth . I'm glad that I was able to see how the family dealt with all that was going on , I know as a mother its so very hard for us not to fix the pain when it comes to our children being hurt. It can be very hard to lose that control considering we think we know whats best for our kids , but in this book you get to see how a mother has to be reminded that there is a God that is bigger than we are and who better than to take care of our children than the one who created them .
I recommend , no scratch that, I dare you to read this book .. I dare you to embrace the fact that miracles still happen. I hope this book envelopes you the way it did me and that is changes the way you look at faith and perhaps Miracle Jen will effect you like it has so many others.
(I was in no way compensated for my review other than receiving the book , all opinions are my own )
January 22, 2019
This memoir is so beautiful and inspiring. I'll preface my review by saying that the book is heavy on faith.
How she lived is beyond everyone at the hospital, and I would say beyond her parents' and friends' belief but they had faith. The one who had the least severe injuries was Jen's brother. Her mother and father were severely injured and ended up in the hospital and her mother in a wheelchair for months. Jen, however, nearly lost her life.
It was difficult reading this because I'm a mother of five and I can only imagine the PAIN I'd go through if this had been or ever is one of my children. As a Christian woman, I felt this book so inspiring. Throughout the book are Bible verses that Jen had written in her journal prior to her accident, illustrating how much she loved God and wanted to share Christ. What's amazing is how much more she loved him and praised him after the accident. Don't get me wrong...she had her moments because she had a severe brain injury. Friends and family came together to nurse Jen back to health. She had to learn to do everything all over again.
How she lived is beyond everyone at the hospital, and I would say beyond her parents' and friends' belief but they had faith. The one who had the least severe injuries was Jen's brother. Her mother and father were severely injured and ended up in the hospital and her mother in a wheelchair for months. Jen, however, nearly lost her life.
It was difficult reading this because I'm a mother of five and I can only imagine the PAIN I'd go through if this had been or ever is one of my children. As a Christian woman, I felt this book so inspiring. Throughout the book are Bible verses that Jen had written in her journal prior to her accident, illustrating how much she loved God and wanted to share Christ. What's amazing is how much more she loved him and praised him after the accident. Don't get me wrong...she had her moments because she had a severe brain injury. Friends and family came together to nurse Jen back to health. She had to learn to do everything all over again.
March 16, 2019
I have listened to this one before, but being it's a true story, and the second time I listened to it, I looked the family up, and they had a few photos online of the vehicle after this tragic accident. It makes you wonder how they all survived-it was all Jesus. It was a tear-jerker for me.
April 13, 2012
The Bible says that the Holy Spirit living inside a Christian is like a treasure hiding in an earthen vessel. What happens when the fragile vessel housing that precious treasure cracks and breaks? The brokenness provides an even greater opportunity for God’s Spirit to shine.
Just so, my friend’s mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s, could not remember her own name but somehow knew every word of her favorite hymns and Bible verses. Or my learning-disabled student, who could barely retain enough information to pass a class, was able to memorize Bible verses and understand biblical concepts. Or take the example of Jen Barrick.
What is Jen’s story? On the night of November 5, 2006, the Barrick family was driving home from church when their van was struck by a drunk driver. Fifteen-year-old Jen suffered multiple skull fractures and severe brain trauma and was not expected to survive the night. But against all odds, she did. As she lingered in a coma, doctors warned that if Jen ever woke up, she would be cursing and screaming in confusion due to her brain injuries.
The doctors told her mother, Linda, “Brain injury patients are agitated, confused, and in pain. Often reviving patients are violent, lashing out with arms and legs, fighting and swearing, using words you couldn’t imagine the person even knew.”
But that’s not how it happened for Jen.
Instead, she woke at 3 a.m., praying.
Though Jen could not communicate with her family beyond a few slurred words, she remembered whole portions of the Bible and every praise song she’d ever learned—and spoke them clearly.
Linda writes, “While her battered body lay in a hospital room in Virginia, her spirit stood in the throne room of the Almighty.”
Those who heard Jen’s first middle-of-the-night prayers thought God was going to take Jen to heaven right then. But Jen’s prayer gave Linda hope. “Whatever happened from now on, I [Linda] knew that Jen was the Lord’s and He had blessings to shower upon her along with great work to do in His name.”
Miracle for Jen chronicles Jen’s journey through brokenness. Though she lost much, she gained a connection with God that few have while here on earth and a powerful ministry. Jen’s story renewed my appreciation for God’s gift of life and reminded me why I can trust Him with all that I am. It would be difficult to read this book and not be changed. The publisher gave me one coupon for a free copy of the book to giveaway. Stop by my blog Doorkeeper to enter the giveaway!
Just so, my friend’s mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s, could not remember her own name but somehow knew every word of her favorite hymns and Bible verses. Or my learning-disabled student, who could barely retain enough information to pass a class, was able to memorize Bible verses and understand biblical concepts. Or take the example of Jen Barrick.
What is Jen’s story? On the night of November 5, 2006, the Barrick family was driving home from church when their van was struck by a drunk driver. Fifteen-year-old Jen suffered multiple skull fractures and severe brain trauma and was not expected to survive the night. But against all odds, she did. As she lingered in a coma, doctors warned that if Jen ever woke up, she would be cursing and screaming in confusion due to her brain injuries.
The doctors told her mother, Linda, “Brain injury patients are agitated, confused, and in pain. Often reviving patients are violent, lashing out with arms and legs, fighting and swearing, using words you couldn’t imagine the person even knew.”
But that’s not how it happened for Jen.
Instead, she woke at 3 a.m., praying.
Though Jen could not communicate with her family beyond a few slurred words, she remembered whole portions of the Bible and every praise song she’d ever learned—and spoke them clearly.
Linda writes, “While her battered body lay in a hospital room in Virginia, her spirit stood in the throne room of the Almighty.”
Those who heard Jen’s first middle-of-the-night prayers thought God was going to take Jen to heaven right then. But Jen’s prayer gave Linda hope. “Whatever happened from now on, I [Linda] knew that Jen was the Lord’s and He had blessings to shower upon her along with great work to do in His name.”
Miracle for Jen chronicles Jen’s journey through brokenness. Though she lost much, she gained a connection with God that few have while here on earth and a powerful ministry. Jen’s story renewed my appreciation for God’s gift of life and reminded me why I can trust Him with all that I am. It would be difficult to read this book and not be changed. The publisher gave me one coupon for a free copy of the book to giveaway. Stop by my blog Doorkeeper to enter the giveaway!
April 26, 2012
For my full review, please visit my blog at http://maryellenherrera.com/2012/03/1...
Miracle for Jen is the miraculous story of a teenaged girl whose life was radically changed the night a drunk driver hit her family’s van while they were returning home from church. Although her Mom and Dad, and brother were injured, Jen received the blunt of the crash and ended up in a coma for five weeks. As her parents, Andy and Linda, slowly recovered from their multiple injuries, they continued to faithfully visit Jen in the hospital. Many were praying, asking for a miracle; that Jen would awake from the coma. Then one night it happened, God touched Jen and she awoke praying and praising God! Although out of the coma, Jen’s brain trauma still made it difficult for her to do certain things, and she couldn’t remember events, people, and places or even recent conversations, which caused moments of confusion, but whenever she prayed her spirit soared and it was as if she wasn’t a victim of a brain injury. Jen and her story became an inspiration to the many people she encountered, and as she continued to heal God continued to use her and her family to further His testimony of love, mercy, and grace.
What an encouraging story! From page one I was captivated by Jen’s story. When hearing about this book I thought I was going to encounter a sad traumatic story of a young life marred by a brain injury, but instead the story I read wasn’t a tragedy at all. Through God’s omnipotent power and grace, He used this awful circumstance and instead inspired, changed, and touched thousands of people!
As I read about this young, gifted, and God-loving teenager whose life changed in an instant, I found it inspiring that she constantly thanked God for using her! Even amidst the daily hardships of her brain injury, she thanked Him. Jen was just happy to be with God and to be used by Him, and it was His strength and love that saw her through each moment of each day. This message, of trusting God and His plans for you, is what touched me the most. Reading Miracle for Jen became a self examination of my life and attitude. Being amazed at Jen’s outlook made me inspect the way I saw life and the circumstances I’ve been in…and it made me wonder how I would react to such a devastating accident or personal injury; would it build me up or tear me down, bring me closer to God or farther? Would my testimony encourage and touch others, and bring them to see God’s hand in my life? Hmmm, I think I have some serious work to do! Luckily, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us!
Miracle for Jen is the miraculous story of a teenaged girl whose life was radically changed the night a drunk driver hit her family’s van while they were returning home from church. Although her Mom and Dad, and brother were injured, Jen received the blunt of the crash and ended up in a coma for five weeks. As her parents, Andy and Linda, slowly recovered from their multiple injuries, they continued to faithfully visit Jen in the hospital. Many were praying, asking for a miracle; that Jen would awake from the coma. Then one night it happened, God touched Jen and she awoke praying and praising God! Although out of the coma, Jen’s brain trauma still made it difficult for her to do certain things, and she couldn’t remember events, people, and places or even recent conversations, which caused moments of confusion, but whenever she prayed her spirit soared and it was as if she wasn’t a victim of a brain injury. Jen and her story became an inspiration to the many people she encountered, and as she continued to heal God continued to use her and her family to further His testimony of love, mercy, and grace.
What an encouraging story! From page one I was captivated by Jen’s story. When hearing about this book I thought I was going to encounter a sad traumatic story of a young life marred by a brain injury, but instead the story I read wasn’t a tragedy at all. Through God’s omnipotent power and grace, He used this awful circumstance and instead inspired, changed, and touched thousands of people!
As I read about this young, gifted, and God-loving teenager whose life changed in an instant, I found it inspiring that she constantly thanked God for using her! Even amidst the daily hardships of her brain injury, she thanked Him. Jen was just happy to be with God and to be used by Him, and it was His strength and love that saw her through each moment of each day. This message, of trusting God and His plans for you, is what touched me the most. Reading Miracle for Jen became a self examination of my life and attitude. Being amazed at Jen’s outlook made me inspect the way I saw life and the circumstances I’ve been in…and it made me wonder how I would react to such a devastating accident or personal injury; would it build me up or tear me down, bring me closer to God or farther? Would my testimony encourage and touch others, and bring them to see God’s hand in my life? Hmmm, I think I have some serious work to do! Luckily, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us!
February 11, 2019
Fifteen-year-old Jen was on her way home from church with her family one night when the peacefulness was shattered with….BAM! Miracle for Jen is the miraculous, true story of a family’s faith and healing through a tragic accident. The Barrick family was only a mile from their house when a drunk driver hit their car head-on going 80 miles an hour. The Barrick family suffered many injuries (including a dislocated eye socket, and broken pelvis), however, miraculously all four members of the family survived. While most of the injuries were severe, Jen’s were the worst–in fact, so bad, that the paramedics said she had no chance to live. As her daughter lay in a coma or 5 weeks, Jens mother sent desperate prayers and pleas up to Heaven desperately begging God to allow her to daughter to awake from her coma and return to a normal life. After many days and weeks of desperate pleas, her prayer was finally answered–but not exactly how she had planned. Because of her traumatic brain damage, Jen lost all memory (except her faith in and love for God) and had to learn to walk and gain control of her body again. Miracle for Jen is Linda Barrick’s telling of this tragic accident, her desperate prayer, and “Heaven’s extraordinary answer”.
June 14, 2023
The story and testimony: superb. What an amazing example of God's triumph and plans hidden in a tragedy.
March 2, 2012
A tragic yet amazing true story of the struggle and recovery of a family only through the power of God.
What a mix of sadness and enlightment this story has been. I like no one else on earth can even begin to fanthom Gods plans, or reasoning, for why this accident happened to the Barrick family, or the miracles that have come after. Sometimes we may assume that because we are already in a relationship with God we are safe from evil. It can be even more heart-wrenching to struggle with feelings of why us, why me, like it has been for the Barrick family. Or was the Barrick family really that close to God to begin with? It could be God wanted them closer to him in ways they may never understand or imagine.
The tragedy this family was hit with is hard for anyone to imagine unless we are or have been in a similar situation. The most important part of this tragedy is that it brought a whole community of people together in prayer to help this family. The Barricks are truly blessed in many ways, even though Jennifer may never be her old self again, the family changed forever. One struggle for Linda the author of the book and Jennifer's mother, has been the loss of her daughter as she was prior to the accident. In Miracle for Jen, Linda talks about her grief for the life her daughter had before the accident and her grief for her daughters future which has been completely altered. How Jennifer had always been on the shy side and had just started to blossom and be more comfortable in her skin, when this trajedy hit. How does a mother get over the changes brought on to her daughter, whether as an accident, illness or mental disorder. The truth is even though we might find peace with Gods help, as a mother it is very difficult to accept a tragedy that may change our child like this forever, only time can heal.
God has truly chosen Jennifer to pursue a different path and the reason she might never be back to her old self is because it would definitely distract her from the plans he has for her. I recommend this book to anyone who would like to read about a miracle this whole family has been through and be inspired by it.
On the flip side this book is also a wakeup call for those that may be addicted to alcohol, drink and drive or those who enable someone who does. I know Jennifer has a lot of work ahead of her as does the Barrick family. My prayers are with Jennifer, that she may find peace, and that God heal her feelings of desperation and anxiety that come with brain trauma, so it will be easier on her ministry and her family on a daily basis.
What a mix of sadness and enlightment this story has been. I like no one else on earth can even begin to fanthom Gods plans, or reasoning, for why this accident happened to the Barrick family, or the miracles that have come after. Sometimes we may assume that because we are already in a relationship with God we are safe from evil. It can be even more heart-wrenching to struggle with feelings of why us, why me, like it has been for the Barrick family. Or was the Barrick family really that close to God to begin with? It could be God wanted them closer to him in ways they may never understand or imagine.
The tragedy this family was hit with is hard for anyone to imagine unless we are or have been in a similar situation. The most important part of this tragedy is that it brought a whole community of people together in prayer to help this family. The Barricks are truly blessed in many ways, even though Jennifer may never be her old self again, the family changed forever. One struggle for Linda the author of the book and Jennifer's mother, has been the loss of her daughter as she was prior to the accident. In Miracle for Jen, Linda talks about her grief for the life her daughter had before the accident and her grief for her daughters future which has been completely altered. How Jennifer had always been on the shy side and had just started to blossom and be more comfortable in her skin, when this trajedy hit. How does a mother get over the changes brought on to her daughter, whether as an accident, illness or mental disorder. The truth is even though we might find peace with Gods help, as a mother it is very difficult to accept a tragedy that may change our child like this forever, only time can heal.
God has truly chosen Jennifer to pursue a different path and the reason she might never be back to her old self is because it would definitely distract her from the plans he has for her. I recommend this book to anyone who would like to read about a miracle this whole family has been through and be inspired by it.
On the flip side this book is also a wakeup call for those that may be addicted to alcohol, drink and drive or those who enable someone who does. I know Jennifer has a lot of work ahead of her as does the Barrick family. My prayers are with Jennifer, that she may find peace, and that God heal her feelings of desperation and anxiety that come with brain trauma, so it will be easier on her ministry and her family on a daily basis.
August 16, 2024
This book was like a sweet redirect to my spirit, a reminder to be praising God not just to be asking him for things.
And, wow, to have so many people helping you after an accident is amazing. I wonder what people do who don’t have this community.
However it did challenge a core belief I’d been cherishing - namely that if I was spiritually focused, ‘perfect’ in my worship of God that I would then deal with the day-to-day of my life also in a perfect way. Jen does seem to have attained this amazing, beautiful, worship-filled relationship with God where she’s very focused on him. I watched a video of her praying and I understand why she is brought in to pray for big events. But she is still irritable at times, wrong in how she perceives things, over-reacts and can be difficult to take care of. She’s still human, in other words the wonderful closeness she has with God doesn’t mean she’s always easy to live with.
As I reflect on my own life, I don’t know whether to feel discouraged or encouraged by this, but I’m glad I’ve read it.
And, wow, to have so many people helping you after an accident is amazing. I wonder what people do who don’t have this community.
However it did challenge a core belief I’d been cherishing - namely that if I was spiritually focused, ‘perfect’ in my worship of God that I would then deal with the day-to-day of my life also in a perfect way. Jen does seem to have attained this amazing, beautiful, worship-filled relationship with God where she’s very focused on him. I watched a video of her praying and I understand why she is brought in to pray for big events. But she is still irritable at times, wrong in how she perceives things, over-reacts and can be difficult to take care of. She’s still human, in other words the wonderful closeness she has with God doesn’t mean she’s always easy to live with.
As I reflect on my own life, I don’t know whether to feel discouraged or encouraged by this, but I’m glad I’ve read it.
March 8, 2013
Age Appropriate For: All Ages
Best for Ages: 18 and up (reading level and style)
Sometimes we need to be reminded that God can use us despite our short comings and faults. We need to be shown God’s strength is shown best in our own weakness. If you need this reminder, this book is an excellent choice for doing that.
From the first chapter I was captivated by this story. It was told like I imagine Linda would tell it if I was sitting in her living room, hearing what God had done in her life, and in the life of Jen. I really enjoyed the realism of the style and the honesty Linda brings to the table.
This story was an encouragement as well as a challenge to me. As Linda talked about her daughter, who had suffered a traumatic brain injury, spending her waking hours praising God, I wondered what I would do in the situation. If I got knocked in the head and was unable to control what I was saying, what would come out of my mouth? Meaningless movie lines I am prone to repeat? Would those ugly word and thoughts that I unfortunately have sometimes, come tumbling out? Or would I be like Jen where the good things spill out in an unending torrent?
This book caused me once again to look at what I am reading and watching and making sure that if what I am putting in comes out, I do not have a reason to be ashamed. It also made me praise God for his goodness for being my strength when I am weak.
If you are looking for an encouraging read that will also challenge you, I highly recommend this book.
I received this book from Tyndale House in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Best for Ages: 18 and up (reading level and style)
Sometimes we need to be reminded that God can use us despite our short comings and faults. We need to be shown God’s strength is shown best in our own weakness. If you need this reminder, this book is an excellent choice for doing that.
From the first chapter I was captivated by this story. It was told like I imagine Linda would tell it if I was sitting in her living room, hearing what God had done in her life, and in the life of Jen. I really enjoyed the realism of the style and the honesty Linda brings to the table.
This story was an encouragement as well as a challenge to me. As Linda talked about her daughter, who had suffered a traumatic brain injury, spending her waking hours praising God, I wondered what I would do in the situation. If I got knocked in the head and was unable to control what I was saying, what would come out of my mouth? Meaningless movie lines I am prone to repeat? Would those ugly word and thoughts that I unfortunately have sometimes, come tumbling out? Or would I be like Jen where the good things spill out in an unending torrent?
This book caused me once again to look at what I am reading and watching and making sure that if what I am putting in comes out, I do not have a reason to be ashamed. It also made me praise God for his goodness for being my strength when I am weak.
If you are looking for an encouraging read that will also challenge you, I highly recommend this book.
I received this book from Tyndale House in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed in this review are entirely my own.
April 7, 2016
The Barrick family is coming home one evening when their lives are forever changed. A drunk driver hits them head on and all of them sustain injuries that put them in the hospital. But the daughter, Jen, will never be the same. What begin as prayers for recovery turn into prayers of acceptance and prayers for guidance. It's clear that God has plans for Jen and the family is learning to adapt.
This book was very well written. I was able to read it all in one evening. I was riveted from the very beginning. The journey that this family has been on is amazing and miraculous. And the testimony that Jen is now able to give is reaching more people than she ever dreamed possible.
This book is a must read. I would especially recommend it for young teens. It is a powerful testimony that I'm thankful to have read.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
This book was very well written. I was able to read it all in one evening. I was riveted from the very beginning. The journey that this family has been on is amazing and miraculous. And the testimony that Jen is now able to give is reaching more people than she ever dreamed possible.
This book is a must read. I would especially recommend it for young teens. It is a powerful testimony that I'm thankful to have read.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
December 22, 2012
My Thoughts: Barrick doesn't mess around with a sweet intro but rather jumps right into the horrific awareness of knowing she'd been in an accident, was injured, trapped and was unable to assist her husband or children. The story of her recovery along with that of the rest of her family especially of Jen is heart wrenching. There were times I couldn't keep reading through the tears in my eyes.
Barrick focuses on her daughter Jen, most seriously injured and not expected to survive. She tells of miracle after miracle that occurs in her life. Miracle for Jen is a story of trust in God, faith, choosing joy even in the worst of times. It's a story for anyone that has faced any hardship in life to see how God is really and truly there even in the worst of times.
Stop by my blog by 9 March for a giveaway:
http://reneesuz.blogspot.com/2012/03/...
Barrick focuses on her daughter Jen, most seriously injured and not expected to survive. She tells of miracle after miracle that occurs in her life. Miracle for Jen is a story of trust in God, faith, choosing joy even in the worst of times. It's a story for anyone that has faced any hardship in life to see how God is really and truly there even in the worst of times.
Stop by my blog by 9 March for a giveaway:
http://reneesuz.blogspot.com/2012/03/...
March 26, 2012
It is hard to know where to start with this book. Here is a story that could totally have been avoided, it should never have happened. A drivers license suspended, a driver slumped over his steering wheel, pulled over by the police just minutes before the accident. But still it happened. How does a mother (family) get past that? Told from the point of view of Linda Barrick, Jen's mother. Here is an emotional packed book that grabbed me and I had a hard time putting this book down.
Miracle for Jen is an amazing book it will cry, make you laugh, it will make you live each day to the fullest because you don't know what is around the corner, that you life can change in the blink of an eye. It will make you realize that even in the toughest times, even in the darkest hours there is still hope.
Miracle for Jen is an amazing book it will cry, make you laugh, it will make you live each day to the fullest because you don't know what is around the corner, that you life can change in the blink of an eye. It will make you realize that even in the toughest times, even in the darkest hours there is still hope.
July 31, 2012
I found this book very inspiring. It was a great reminder of so many things - putting full and complete trust in God, even when you don't understand His reasons was the biggest for me. A call to re-invigorate my prayer life, to make it come alive more, to spark that fire and get it blazing.
May 18, 2021
This family's story will make you rethink hardship and how God brings good to those who love Him and glorify Him. I had the pleasure of hearing them speak and they are very genuinely humble and let the Hold Spirit lead.
November 19, 2012
An awesome and inspiring story of God's love!
June 17, 2019
“Father, even when I can’t see where You’re leading, I am going to trust You through everything!” – Jen Barrick
If you are looking for some encouragement to trust in God, and live your best life, Miracle for Jen by: Linda Barrick is one that I would highly recommend. This book both inspired and challenged me, and what made it even more powerful was that it is a true story!
Jen Barrick was a normal fifteen year old, who took her faith very seriously. She recorded her desire to be used by God in her journals, but she never expected that she would be spreading the Gospel after a traumatic brain injury. One evening, Jen’s family was struck by a drunk driver, and Jen sustained life threatening injuries. The book tells the story of Jen’s miraculous recovery, told by her mother. The road was not easy, and Jen will never be the same person that she was before the accident, but the fact that she was able to survive and now has dedicated her life to publicly sharing her story and faith, is nothing short of incredible.
Jen and the rest of the Barrick family were able to change tragedy into triumph. They are not bitter, and they use this as an opportunity to spread the love and Good News of Jesus to others. So many times, I complain and worry about things that just are not going to matter in the long run. So many times, I choose to grumble instead of being grateful. Jen Barrick’s story convicted me, and reminded me of what really matters in this life: my family, relationships, and spreading the Gospel. This book was the perfect reality check for me. As Jen once wrote in her journal, “Wow, like I am in awe! God has a plan for me even tho I may not see it. He allows trials to mold us into what He wants us to be.” Amen, Jen. May I remember this daily, no matter where He leads me.
If you are looking for some encouragement to trust in God, and live your best life, Miracle for Jen by: Linda Barrick is one that I would highly recommend. This book both inspired and challenged me, and what made it even more powerful was that it is a true story!
Jen Barrick was a normal fifteen year old, who took her faith very seriously. She recorded her desire to be used by God in her journals, but she never expected that she would be spreading the Gospel after a traumatic brain injury. One evening, Jen’s family was struck by a drunk driver, and Jen sustained life threatening injuries. The book tells the story of Jen’s miraculous recovery, told by her mother. The road was not easy, and Jen will never be the same person that she was before the accident, but the fact that she was able to survive and now has dedicated her life to publicly sharing her story and faith, is nothing short of incredible.
Jen and the rest of the Barrick family were able to change tragedy into triumph. They are not bitter, and they use this as an opportunity to spread the love and Good News of Jesus to others. So many times, I complain and worry about things that just are not going to matter in the long run. So many times, I choose to grumble instead of being grateful. Jen Barrick’s story convicted me, and reminded me of what really matters in this life: my family, relationships, and spreading the Gospel. This book was the perfect reality check for me. As Jen once wrote in her journal, “Wow, like I am in awe! God has a plan for me even tho I may not see it. He allows trials to mold us into what He wants us to be.” Amen, Jen. May I remember this daily, no matter where He leads me.
April 28, 2024
The night was like any other: they left church and were heading home, stopping at KFC to pick up supper for the friends that are meeting at their house. Instead, Linda, Andy, Jen, and Josh are hit by a drunk driver. The accident was severe, but by the grace of God they survived. Josh had nearly no injuries, while Andy and Linda had several fractures. 15 year old Jen though, was unconscious and basically considered dead. Instead, she had a severe brain injury that left her in a coma for several weeks, and when she wakes up she is left basically unable to communicate. However, when she's talking to God, her speech is as clear as ever, and her faith was only strengthened by this. Certain that God brought her out of this coma to share the news about Jesus, she makes it her life plan to share the good news as often as she possibly can.
This is an incredibly touching story that I can almost promise will touch anyone. I'm the same age as Jen, just a couple months older, and it's hard to believe anyone my age having to go through anything like this. The writing is a little stilted at times, but it was her first book and I can't imagine it an easy story for the family to tell, even after all these years doing it
This is an incredibly touching story that I can almost promise will touch anyone. I'm the same age as Jen, just a couple months older, and it's hard to believe anyone my age having to go through anything like this. The writing is a little stilted at times, but it was her first book and I can't imagine it an easy story for the family to tell, even after all these years doing it
May 17, 2018
I'm personally reminded of how my relationship with the Lord was before before I noticed the painful realities of life. I may have gone astray, got disheartened at broken relationships that caused my doubts leading to my shakened faith, I believe that finding this book was God's plan for me -- to remind me of who I was and who I am destined to be -- to nurture, practice, solidify and proclaim my faith.
"Faith makes all the difference. The God who has sent His perfect Son to pay for our sins with His life could never wish us harm. Whatever happens to us, even if it seems hard and painful by our standards, is part of His flawless plan for the world. Fron our limited, self-centered, human perspective, the tribulations we face seem devastating and all-consuming. Faith tells us that from the Lord's perspective, those trials are the refiner's fire that show us how helpless we are on our own. They turn our eyes away from the desires and distractions of the world and force us to focus on the power of God in us. It's only when God is all we have that we know for sure God is all we need."
"Faith makes all the difference. The God who has sent His perfect Son to pay for our sins with His life could never wish us harm. Whatever happens to us, even if it seems hard and painful by our standards, is part of His flawless plan for the world. Fron our limited, self-centered, human perspective, the tribulations we face seem devastating and all-consuming. Faith tells us that from the Lord's perspective, those trials are the refiner's fire that show us how helpless we are on our own. They turn our eyes away from the desires and distractions of the world and force us to focus on the power of God in us. It's only when God is all we have that we know for sure God is all we need."
October 19, 2021
This story was so inspiring. It also made me stop and think about my perspective. I’m sure the little things I grumble about doing are so much more difficult for Jen and yet she does them gratefully. She is an amazing person and I wish her and her family an amazing life. I am so glad I chose this book. It made me realize that while I have faith, I need to pay more attention to developing a deeper faith. Jen is a true role model. Her family, and her Mom in particular, are so good to her and so supportive. This book also made me think about forgiveness. I think that was a message I needed to hear. I thank them for sharing their story.
April 5, 2019
In a single second, your whole world can change. That’s what happened to the Barrick family when a drunk driver shattered their car and their lives. This is a story of how faith in Christ enabled this family to survive, endure and persevere through many difficulties along the path of recovery, and of how the author had to cope with the knowledge that her daughter would never be the same again. And yet, in spite of Jen’s brain damage, the Lord brought her to a place where she had the boldness in witnessing for Him that she had always prayed for, but which seemed out of reach. “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good, to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purposes.” Read this book to find out how God uses this tragedy for good, and be encouraged in the midst of your own trials.
September 4, 2024
This was an amazing story to read. This family went through unthinkable trauma but through it all clung to their faith and to each other. Linda (Jen's mom) recounts everything so well, and it was a blessing to read about Jen's miraculous recovery. I loved seeing how others were impacted and experienced the Lord in a new way as they prayed for Jen to survive. And then reading about how Jen's brain injury actually made her more bold for Christ and uninhibited in her joy and peace in Him was very inspiring and encouraging!
April 20, 2023
Miracle for Jen reminds me so much of Shannon Kerr’s AgainstAll Odds. Jen’s family is in a horrific accident caused by a drunk driver. This book chronicles their journey back from the fear that Jen would not live through the night (along with their own devastating injuries) to Jen being a living testimony to God.Even though the book is about Jen’s (and often the family’s) unwavering faith in and devotion to God, I wish there would have been more I’d the medical piece in there as well.
December 2, 2018
This is the story of a Christian family who survives an unbelievable physical tragedy, only to find God sufficient for their every need. It's a bit repetitive at some points, but overall, the mom communicates clearly, often in the daughter's own words, how life has changed. I'll be encouraging my own middle school aged daughters to read this!!
May 31, 2020
This was such an inspiring book, one that made me look at my own love for God. This girl lost her future, the one she had planned out including a sweet boyfriend but she realized as God healed her that He had a better future for her one that would influence the lives of thousands for His glory! This book is a must read for anyone who has suffered or is going through a trial!
June 13, 2018
I cannot imagine being a mom and having this happen to your daughter. The book is about Jen but Written from her mom’s perspective. What a test of faith for the entire family and a willingness to give up their plans and accept that God’s plan is far better, even if it’s not what you want.
June 25, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this family's story. At first, I couldn't put it down. Toward the end, it began to draw on but was still overall very inspiring. Jen's faith is limitless, and her strength has no bounds. She's a walking miracle!
March 19, 2025
Challenging, heart-wrenching and inspiring. Barrick bravely recounts her family's traumatic car accident and testifies to the grace, hope, love and forgiveness they all found along their healing journey. A heavy read, but worth it.
(gifted from FOR-U ministries)
(gifted from FOR-U ministries)
February 6, 2018
Loved this book. Met Jennifer Barrick when she visited our church. True miracle. Pure of heart. Blessed by God. Amazing story
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