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On Heaven's Doorstep: God's Help in Times of Crisis--True Stories from a First Responder
In Life or Death, There's Only One Guarantee—God Will Be There Medical emergencies are among life's most unexpected and terrifying realities. But isn't it reassuring in times of crisis, you can find hope and comfort in the hands of a loving God? Encounter heart-stopping drama in these real-life stories of everyday people like you who found themselves on heaven's doorstep—fully dependent on the skilled and courageous efforts of first responders and on the mercy of God. As you read these firsthand accounts of perilous situations with uncertain outcomes, you will experience a full spectrum of emotions, from tender heartache to tremendous joy. Through it all, you will witness God's amazing love and care for His children, both for those who are brought back from the edge and for those He welcomes into eternal fellowship with Him. Be inspired as you go on call with veteran EMT Andrea Jo Rodgers and other brave professionals dedicated to helping when humanity is at its most frail.
- GenresInspirationalChristian
224 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2018
3 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 25, 2018
First, I want to thank Andrea Jo Rodgers, Harvest House Publishers, and NetGalley for providing me with this book.
On Heavens Doorstep by Andrea Jo Rodgers is a book that will stay with you well after you finish reading it. It is a book filled with true stories of people that experienced medical miracles. You get to read it from the patient side of things but also faith is intertwined in it as well. There are some incredible stories that will pull on your heart strings and even amaze you!
I loved how this book was dedicated to the memory of her niece whom put other needs before her own. It was also dedicated in loving memory of a dear friend and fellow first aid squad volunteer. She had great compassion, kindness, and courage.
In this book Andrea lists the Volunteer Members of the Pine Cove First Aid Squad names and occupations.
On Heavens Doorstep by Andrea Jo Rodgers is a book that will stay with you well after you finish reading it. It is a book filled with true stories of people that experienced medical miracles. You get to read it from the patient side of things but also faith is intertwined in it as well. There are some incredible stories that will pull on your heart strings and even amaze you!
I loved how this book was dedicated to the memory of her niece whom put other needs before her own. It was also dedicated in loving memory of a dear friend and fellow first aid squad volunteer. She had great compassion, kindness, and courage.
In this book Andrea lists the Volunteer Members of the Pine Cove First Aid Squad names and occupations.
August 27, 2022
On Heaven's Doorstep by Andrea Jo Rodgers is a terrific read. Andrea did a fantastic job of storytelling, taking the reader on first responder calls that illustrated each situation's good, the bad, and the ugly. She shared the trauma that can turn a person's life upside down. Andrea's book is based on actual events reminding us that miracles happen every day.
I was initially drawn to On Heaven's Doorstep because of several traumatic experiences. My first encounter happened when I was 12 years old. My seven-year-old brother was in a lawnmower accident. I was babysitting when he was hurt. It was the first time I had ever dealt with emergency medical personnel and ridden in an ambulance. My brother lived thanks to those first responders' quick thinking and action. Fast-forward 41 years, and I still can't stand the sight of blood, but I am very grateful whenever I see an ambulance pass me by on the road. I am thankful that God is sending a team of qualified individuals to perform yet another miracle. At least, that is always my hope.
Andrea is definitely a gifted writer, not afraid to share details to drive a point home. She was able to share traumatic scenarios authentically and with vulnerability. I could tell that she really cares for the people she has helped. I also appreciated how Andrea shared her faith with the reader. There are so many instances I can think of where people forget about the miracle of an event. God still performs miracles every day. Nothing happens by chance.
If you are interested in reading an inspirational Christian book based on actual life events, you will want to check out On Heaven's Doorstep. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
Note: I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for sharing my thoughts. I am disclosing this per FTC regulations.
I was initially drawn to On Heaven's Doorstep because of several traumatic experiences. My first encounter happened when I was 12 years old. My seven-year-old brother was in a lawnmower accident. I was babysitting when he was hurt. It was the first time I had ever dealt with emergency medical personnel and ridden in an ambulance. My brother lived thanks to those first responders' quick thinking and action. Fast-forward 41 years, and I still can't stand the sight of blood, but I am very grateful whenever I see an ambulance pass me by on the road. I am thankful that God is sending a team of qualified individuals to perform yet another miracle. At least, that is always my hope.
Andrea is definitely a gifted writer, not afraid to share details to drive a point home. She was able to share traumatic scenarios authentically and with vulnerability. I could tell that she really cares for the people she has helped. I also appreciated how Andrea shared her faith with the reader. There are so many instances I can think of where people forget about the miracle of an event. God still performs miracles every day. Nothing happens by chance.
If you are interested in reading an inspirational Christian book based on actual life events, you will want to check out On Heaven's Doorstep. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
Note: I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for sharing my thoughts. I am disclosing this per FTC regulations.
August 18, 2022
I think first responders and EMT’s have one of the most stressful jobs around. Every call is something different and they know they are going into a situation that could be chaotic. The stories shared in this book have illustrations of faith, hope, miracles and survival. As I read some of the stories I began to cry. Life is so short and in a blink of an eye you could be gone.
There is no way to pick a favorite story from this book because each one is touching and life changing. The one with the two people in the creek was heartbreaking. In the midst of tragedy God sent someone to help. Officer McNair was one of the strongest swimmers on the dive team and happened to be on duty that night. His heroic efforts helped save lives even though there was one victim. God knew that McNair would be needed and had him placed on duty that particular night.
I do appreciate the different stories that show how quickly an emergency can arise. We are blessed to have people willing to come at a moment’s notice no matter what time it may be. Their compassion for others shows as they skillfully do their examinations. I have had to call 911 twice for two different incidents. They were professional and helped me calm down and I was amazed at how knowledgeable they were in medical emergencies.
I am thankful for these people who come to us in crisis and can see God’s hand in each call they get. I’m sure that it is stressful at times but we are blessed to be able to pick up a phone and call for help knowing someone is on their way. I do like how there is a prayer after every story and that they know God is with them in every call. It is a book of encouragement, sadness, miracles and brave men and women who answer the call when an emergency arises.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
There is no way to pick a favorite story from this book because each one is touching and life changing. The one with the two people in the creek was heartbreaking. In the midst of tragedy God sent someone to help. Officer McNair was one of the strongest swimmers on the dive team and happened to be on duty that night. His heroic efforts helped save lives even though there was one victim. God knew that McNair would be needed and had him placed on duty that particular night.
I do appreciate the different stories that show how quickly an emergency can arise. We are blessed to have people willing to come at a moment’s notice no matter what time it may be. Their compassion for others shows as they skillfully do their examinations. I have had to call 911 twice for two different incidents. They were professional and helped me calm down and I was amazed at how knowledgeable they were in medical emergencies.
I am thankful for these people who come to us in crisis and can see God’s hand in each call they get. I’m sure that it is stressful at times but we are blessed to be able to pick up a phone and call for help knowing someone is on their way. I do like how there is a prayer after every story and that they know God is with them in every call. It is a book of encouragement, sadness, miracles and brave men and women who answer the call when an emergency arises.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
April 8, 2018
Here is a treasure of warm-hearted, inspirational true short stories, a la Chicken Soup for the Soul. You will enjoy meeting everyday people from the lovely town of Pine Cove, who are experiencing a life-changing moment- that scary moment when the EMT emergency service must be called.
Each story features one person or family and opens with a lovely description to the scene. Perhaps the person awakes to moonlight gleaming through the window and then realizes they feel a pain. Or a family may be gathering for a wedding, and grandpa feels funny. Then the story moves on to the rescue of the person and the resolution of their episode.
We also get to glimpse of the heroic efforts of the volunteer EMT personnel and the police, paramedics and other first responders who give of themselves to serve others. The author has been a volunteer EMT for 30 years and has responded to more than 7,000 first-aid and fire calls.
Some of the short stories have a sad outcome. Many have positive endings- such as someone who was able to live to see her grandchild. A few times, even humor is present- like the time the EMTs came to an accident scene and saw a large quantity of blood, which turned out to be spilled ice cream!
The best part of the book for me was that each story started with a verse from Psalms. Many times the volunteer responders, the victim and their family and friends gave praise and thanks to God. One memorable story ended with a church giving loving support to a poor immigrant.
This is a soul-enriching book. I especially enjoyed reading the stories at night, cozy in my bed. For me, a quiet time at the end of the day is a good time to read encouraging thoughts and be reminded to give thanks.
Thanks to Net Galley and Harvest House publishers for an ARC.
Each story features one person or family and opens with a lovely description to the scene. Perhaps the person awakes to moonlight gleaming through the window and then realizes they feel a pain. Or a family may be gathering for a wedding, and grandpa feels funny. Then the story moves on to the rescue of the person and the resolution of their episode.
We also get to glimpse of the heroic efforts of the volunteer EMT personnel and the police, paramedics and other first responders who give of themselves to serve others. The author has been a volunteer EMT for 30 years and has responded to more than 7,000 first-aid and fire calls.
Some of the short stories have a sad outcome. Many have positive endings- such as someone who was able to live to see her grandchild. A few times, even humor is present- like the time the EMTs came to an accident scene and saw a large quantity of blood, which turned out to be spilled ice cream!
The best part of the book for me was that each story started with a verse from Psalms. Many times the volunteer responders, the victim and their family and friends gave praise and thanks to God. One memorable story ended with a church giving loving support to a poor immigrant.
This is a soul-enriching book. I especially enjoyed reading the stories at night, cozy in my bed. For me, a quiet time at the end of the day is a good time to read encouraging thoughts and be reminded to give thanks.
Thanks to Net Galley and Harvest House publishers for an ARC.
August 26, 2022
Examining the experiences of EMT Andrea Jo Rodgers and other members of her team, this book chronicles people who find themselves literally on Heaven’s doorstep, with only the first aid responders between them and Heaven. This collection of stories proves to be a quick read that I could not put down.
Some stories in the collection will make you laugh including one involving a sink, while others may make you want to cry with emotion. All of these accounts made me appreciate what EMTs go through.
Perhaps because we had our own experience with first aid responders when our daughter was young, I can truly appreciate this book. In our case, our daughter simply got her finger stuck inside a toy. All we wanted was to take our daughter to the fire department on the military installation where we lived to get our daughter unstuck. Instead, we ended up with the ambulance, two fire trucks, and a few responders at our house and on our street. I will never forget the appreciation I had for those individuals, and the care they provided to our daughter.
So if you enjoy accounts filled with hope, care, and compassion, I recommend checking this book out for yourself. I definitely recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Some stories in the collection will make you laugh including one involving a sink, while others may make you want to cry with emotion. All of these accounts made me appreciate what EMTs go through.
Perhaps because we had our own experience with first aid responders when our daughter was young, I can truly appreciate this book. In our case, our daughter simply got her finger stuck inside a toy. All we wanted was to take our daughter to the fire department on the military installation where we lived to get our daughter unstuck. Instead, we ended up with the ambulance, two fire trucks, and a few responders at our house and on our street. I will never forget the appreciation I had for those individuals, and the care they provided to our daughter.
So if you enjoy accounts filled with hope, care, and compassion, I recommend checking this book out for yourself. I definitely recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
August 29, 2022
This is the fourth book that I have read written by this author. One of the books was a fiction novel, but the other three have been stories of true rescue calls that the author has helped in. Some of these stories are a lot bit funny, like the time they left one of the team members at the location because they forgot her. Then there are stories that encourages the reader and helps them remember that miracles are possible. I am glad that the author includes stories about patients who don’t recover( not that I am happy the patients die) because it shows that stories are real and that most of these patients whose stories are told are in Heaven with Our Heavenly Father. It is inspirational to read these patients stories of how they never doubt their faith. There are also stories of abuse such as the one lady whose husband pushed her down the steps, and I admit I was happy that he was caught and arrested. My favorite story in this collection is the one about the person that had to have both legs amputated. I am not glad that he had to have that done but I was actually rejoicing at the end of that story. I can’t tell you why, you will have to read the book yourself and then you can rejoice also.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
August 30, 2022
On Heaven's Doorstep is an inspirational book where we get a peek into the experiences of an EMT and the people that she responded to and cared for. While non-fiction, it reads like a fiction novel, where we read from the perspective of the people in need, and then switch to the viewpoint of the responders. It allows us readers to connect to the stories and those involved more and to make it just that much more personal.
I really enjoyed reading these true life stories. They often took me on a roller coaster ride, wondering what was going to happen next. A lot of times, it ended with a happily ever after. Other times, however, it ended with heartache and loss. Either way, Andrea remained hopeful in her storytelling, always interweaving her faith into her experiences.
As someone who currently works in a hospital, I have seen the amazing work of medical professionals and have a high respect for them. This book, however, opened my eyes to the important work of EMTs and made me realize how many lives they truly do save.
I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading these true life stories. They often took me on a roller coaster ride, wondering what was going to happen next. A lot of times, it ended with a happily ever after. Other times, however, it ended with heartache and loss. Either way, Andrea remained hopeful in her storytelling, always interweaving her faith into her experiences.
As someone who currently works in a hospital, I have seen the amazing work of medical professionals and have a high respect for them. This book, however, opened my eyes to the important work of EMTs and made me realize how many lives they truly do save.
I had received a copy of the book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
August 28, 2022
On Heaven's Doorstep: God's Help in Times of Crisis--True Stories from a First Responder by Andrea Jo Rodgers is a Christian Inspirational book. I have never any books by Andrea Jo Rodgers and also the True Stories theme really intrigued me.
Andrea Jo Rodgers is an EMT and has seen many miracles happen during times of Crisis. The book is filled with so many stories of survivors and those who unfortunately did not make it. Andrea has such a talent for writing and it shows in the stories. I also LOVE how Andrea shares her faith in the book. She acknowledges that many times the survivors were so close to death, but God gave them a miracle and a second chance. The emotions experienced while reading this book were all over with laughter, smiles and also heartbreak. True Stories from a Hard Working EMT who has experienced so much during her career! I LOVE how compassionate and kind EMT Andrea is. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys True Stories and Inspirational Stories! FANTASTIC BOOK!
Andrea Jo Rodgers is an EMT and has seen many miracles happen during times of Crisis. The book is filled with so many stories of survivors and those who unfortunately did not make it. Andrea has such a talent for writing and it shows in the stories. I also LOVE how Andrea shares her faith in the book. She acknowledges that many times the survivors were so close to death, but God gave them a miracle and a second chance. The emotions experienced while reading this book were all over with laughter, smiles and also heartbreak. True Stories from a Hard Working EMT who has experienced so much during her career! I LOVE how compassionate and kind EMT Andrea is. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys True Stories and Inspirational Stories! FANTASTIC BOOK!
August 30, 2022
This book of true incidents shared by a first responder includes many stories that touch the heart. The author recounts these encounters in a powerful way, bringing the readers right into the traumatic scenes and the powerful emotions at play as ordinary people face serious health issues and even death. She breathes life into each scenario and presents both the patients’ and the responders’ perspectives. Her Christian worldview also adds to the narratives. I think reading these compelling reports could even help people to be more prepared when they must face their own medical emergencies. I also like the variety of situations the author includes in this book. They come across as authentic and heart-touching and are interesting to read. The thirty medical dramas involve both young and old, healthy and at risk. I look forward to more by this author. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
August 26, 2022
I’m an RN and so maybe it’s different for normal people but I love reading medical things. Because I have all this medical knowledge I know just how bad situations are and just how miraculous certain things are. I love reading these stories.
There are also books that go with this one. I’ve had the pleasure of reading them as well. I would say do know that these books have things that might make you think of your own trauma so you might want to read the chapter headings or more about what is in the book if you have trauma that might be triggered.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
There are also books that go with this one. I’ve had the pleasure of reading them as well. I would say do know that these books have things that might make you think of your own trauma so you might want to read the chapter headings or more about what is in the book if you have trauma that might be triggered.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
August 29, 2022
As a nurse myself, I was immediately inspired and submerged reading first hand accounts in this book of God’s power in the midst of medical emergencies. Nothing is scarier than an emergency for the person, the family, or the emergency staff caring for them and it is such a vulnerable place to be. Isn’t it grand we have a God who is never surprised by emergencies and is with us every step of the way. I love how it was told like a story- it read nicely like it was a fiction even though it was not. I enjoyed seeing the accounts from both sides of the story- person having emergency and their family and then the emergency volunteer or staff responding to it. The miracles chronicled in this book truly left me in awe of our Lord. I can recommend this book for just about anyone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
August 25, 2022
On Heaven’s Doorstep is written by Andrea Jo Rodgers. I have read books by this author before and have always enjoyed them. I love the show Nightwatch. I am fascinated by it. EMTS and first responders have very stressful jobs. They see people at their worst. They see a lot of good bad and ugly. I also love the show 911.
There are so many stories. Some are heartbreaking where the patient did not make it, some are heartwarming. They are all first hand accounts of situations where they don't know the outcome when they first show up. I am thankful for our first responders who stay calm in stressful situations.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this story. All thoughts are my own.
There are so many stories. Some are heartbreaking where the patient did not make it, some are heartwarming. They are all first hand accounts of situations where they don't know the outcome when they first show up. I am thankful for our first responders who stay calm in stressful situations.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this story. All thoughts are my own.
September 4, 2022
This truly was a good read. I think the real stories are what get to me the most and these had all the feelings involved. I’m truly thankful for first responders and people who know what needs done in situations like these.
The way the author writes is wonderful. I really can't imagine being in these situations and the author describes them amazingly. I truly think this was a great book to read and completely enjoyed it.
4/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
The way the author writes is wonderful. I really can't imagine being in these situations and the author describes them amazingly. I truly think this was a great book to read and completely enjoyed it.
4/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
October 24, 2018
I enjoyed the first book by this author (At Heaven’s Edge: True Stories of Faith and Rescue), so I was happy to discover there was a sequel. I read the book cover to cover within three days and thoroughly enjoyed it. Many of the true stories in this book are exciting, and a few made me laugh out loud. The author has a gift of making you feel like you are right there in the heart of the action. Through it all, you feel the quiet presence of God’s love for us all.
October 30, 2018
I enjoy reading medical stories and I also like faith-based ones, so I loved On Heaven’s Doorstep: God’s Help in Times of Crisis-True Stories from a First Responder. It’s the perfect balance of exciting drama, humor, and faith. I especially enjoyed the stories in which victims were resuscitated. This book was every bit as good as the author’s first book, At Heaven’s Edge. I have the utmost respect for our first responders who work so hard to keep us safe.
April 16, 2018
This book is so heart-warming. The stories are told with a compassion and respect that you don't find alot in books. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend. I hope the authors graces us with more of her stories. Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC of this book in return for my honest review.
May 21, 2018
Lots of inspirational stories of medical miracles in the fashion of Chicken Soup for the Soul.
November 27, 2019
What a wonderful collection of short, true-life stories from the author's personal experiences as a First Responder. Seeing the miraculous hand of God in these stories was incredibly inspiring.
August 10, 2022
On Heaven's Doorstep: God's Help in Times of Crisis--True Stories from a First Responder is truly an inspiring book to read. This is one of those books that warms my heart and brings out the tears – happy and sad. I loved reading every single page. Such a beautiful book of faith, hope and heart warming miracles. I found it to be amazing.
I am giving On Heaven's Doorstep: God's Help in Times of Crisis--True Stories from a First Responder five stars. Readers who enjoy reading inspiring stories based on real events. I will be looking for more like this from Andrea Jo Rodgers in the future.
I received a paperback copy of On Heaven's Doorstep: God's Help in Times of Crisis--True Stories from a First Responder from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving On Heaven's Doorstep: God's Help in Times of Crisis--True Stories from a First Responder five stars. Readers who enjoy reading inspiring stories based on real events. I will be looking for more like this from Andrea Jo Rodgers in the future.
I received a paperback copy of On Heaven's Doorstep: God's Help in Times of Crisis--True Stories from a First Responder from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
May 30, 2018
On Heavens Doorstep Is breathtaking. Wowzy Wow Wow Wow, this book is so real - it is exciting to hear stories of people dying and having death experiences. Can you believe it? No for real - can you believe it? I know how I feel - I wont say but I think it might surprise you - but this has a bunch of great stories. The stories can tear the breath right out of you. Enjoy.
November 17, 2018
Another great book by Andrea Rodgers! You will not regret diving into these well written, enjoyable and inspirational stories. This book (just like the previous one) is perfect even with a busy schedule, because you can read it one story at a time. The stories will leave you with a wonderful feeling and an appreciation for the good people that are out there. Highly recommended!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews