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Hope Remains: Seeing the Goodness of God in the Shadow of Suffering
What would you do if the unthinkable happened?Where would you find the strength to endure?The Gordon family was confronted with that very challenge when their five-year-old son, Sawyer, known for his big blue eyes and vivacious spirit, cheerfully pedaled his bike onto their busy road. Moments later, a distracted driver, someone the family knew, stood over the motionless child—the unthinkable had happened.
Part memoir, part Christian apologetic, Hope Remains is much more than a self-help book on grief. It is a transparent story of loss, love, forgiveness, and the unshakeable goodness of God. Colored with humor and stories that make you feel as if you’re engrossed in a fireside chat, Hope Remains sends the message that shattered hearts don’t have to mean shattered hope.Review“I have never read a book that touched me so deeply and affected me so profoundly as HOPE REMAINS. Through these pages, Summer, Reppard, and Casey lay bare the raw, uncensored grief they shared over the unspeakable loss of Sawyer, but they also allow us to experience the unmistakable presence of God that pulled them all together and got them through.
The Gordons astounding story of faith and forgiveness can minister to anyone who has ever known the pain of loss. I will be gifting this work-of-heart to everyone I know because none of us are immune to tragedy.” -Rachel Macy Stafford, New York Times Bestselling Author of Hands Free Mama & Live Love Now
"A couple, whose lives look like a dream come true from the outside, is actually living a fractured fairy tale on the inside. Then the unthinkable happens, changing everything in an instant, and sending them on a journey together through suffering, grief, and unimaginable pain. Will they make it? This is an unforgettable story about a moment in time that changed everything for Summer and Repp, a dramatic tragedy with an unexpected twist opening them up to experiencing God’s faithfulness and ultimately, learning to hear the whispers of God. If you’ve ever wondered why bad things happen to good people, this is the book for you. God’s love and goodness is captured in this story of grace, compassion, and hope." -Susy Flory, New York Times Bestselling author and co-author, Director of West Coast Christian Writers
"Repp and Summer Gordon experienced the unimaginable. As parents, their worst nightmare was realized in the blink of an eye. When we sat down to share their story for our morning show, I was marked my Summer and Repp’s rock solid, unwavering faith. The way they responded in the shock of the moment, moving towards Casey and embracing him in the midst of their loss can only be explained by their relationship with Jesus. This story needs to be heard, not only for the hope it provides, but for the way they point us to how we can endure the “hard” and find Jesus to be enough. And coincidentally, little Sawyer and I share the same birthday. I can’t wait for you to meet this inspiring family in the pages of this book!" -Carmen Brown, The Morning Cruise, The JOY FM"To anyone who has experienced loss, pain, or heartbreak (that should cover all of us), HOPE REMAINS is a must read. It's such a raw and authentic depiction of real suffering, but more importantly, how Jesus can provide hope through it all! There is purpose in the pain. There is healing for the deepest wounds. This book is such a beautiful remind of these truths when we need them the most." -Jonny Diaz, award winning Christian Music Recording Artist of the hit songs, Breathe and More Beautiful You.
Part memoir, part Christian apologetic, Hope Remains is much more than a self-help book on grief. It is a transparent story of loss, love, forgiveness, and the unshakeable goodness of God. Colored with humor and stories that make you feel as if you’re engrossed in a fireside chat, Hope Remains sends the message that shattered hearts don’t have to mean shattered hope.Review“I have never read a book that touched me so deeply and affected me so profoundly as HOPE REMAINS. Through these pages, Summer, Reppard, and Casey lay bare the raw, uncensored grief they shared over the unspeakable loss of Sawyer, but they also allow us to experience the unmistakable presence of God that pulled them all together and got them through.
The Gordons astounding story of faith and forgiveness can minister to anyone who has ever known the pain of loss. I will be gifting this work-of-heart to everyone I know because none of us are immune to tragedy.” -Rachel Macy Stafford, New York Times Bestselling Author of Hands Free Mama & Live Love Now
"A couple, whose lives look like a dream come true from the outside, is actually living a fractured fairy tale on the inside. Then the unthinkable happens, changing everything in an instant, and sending them on a journey together through suffering, grief, and unimaginable pain. Will they make it? This is an unforgettable story about a moment in time that changed everything for Summer and Repp, a dramatic tragedy with an unexpected twist opening them up to experiencing God’s faithfulness and ultimately, learning to hear the whispers of God. If you’ve ever wondered why bad things happen to good people, this is the book for you. God’s love and goodness is captured in this story of grace, compassion, and hope." -Susy Flory, New York Times Bestselling author and co-author, Director of West Coast Christian Writers
"Repp and Summer Gordon experienced the unimaginable. As parents, their worst nightmare was realized in the blink of an eye. When we sat down to share their story for our morning show, I was marked my Summer and Repp’s rock solid, unwavering faith. The way they responded in the shock of the moment, moving towards Casey and embracing him in the midst of their loss can only be explained by their relationship with Jesus. This story needs to be heard, not only for the hope it provides, but for the way they point us to how we can endure the “hard” and find Jesus to be enough. And coincidentally, little Sawyer and I share the same birthday. I can’t wait for you to meet this inspiring family in the pages of this book!" -Carmen Brown, The Morning Cruise, The JOY FM"To anyone who has experienced loss, pain, or heartbreak (that should cover all of us), HOPE REMAINS is a must read. It's such a raw and authentic depiction of real suffering, but more importantly, how Jesus can provide hope through it all! There is purpose in the pain. There is healing for the deepest wounds. This book is such a beautiful remind of these truths when we need them the most." -Jonny Diaz, award winning Christian Music Recording Artist of the hit songs, Breathe and More Beautiful You.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2021
5 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 19, 2021
There has never been a time where I finished reading a book with the desire to go buy 10 copies just to give out to people, but this book is just that good. And I read a lot of books! It was so wonderful in all the right ways. Vulnerable, honest, humble, well written, and inspirational are just a few words to describe it. I know that sounds a little over the top, but I can honestly say that this book has changed me for the better. This book touched my heart, felt relatable, and was an enjoyable read all at the same time. The story is heavy and you will most likely cry, but you will also get the opportunity to see the fingerprints of God all over a story that is being used by a family continuing to walk for God’s glory. All of the hard questions you might wonder about, Summer and Reppard answer in an eloquent way. Seriously, just read the book and be touched by Sawyer’s life. I know I was.
February 23, 2021
This book. Wow.
Imagine walking through one of the worst situations we as parents can imagine - and finding hope in the midst of it all.
This book is real. Raw. Honest.
I loved how the book bounced from Summer’s voice to her husband Reppard’s voice, and then Casey’s voice. Who is Casey? He’s the young man whose vehicle struck and killed their little boy. Hearing each perspective made this book so rich. The themes of forgiveness, hope, and love will make you cry and make you smile.
Gracious this is a book our world needs right now. Hope in the midst of suffering? Yes. It’s possible. Such a beautiful, impactful book that I will be thinking about for a long time.
Imagine walking through one of the worst situations we as parents can imagine - and finding hope in the midst of it all.
This book is real. Raw. Honest.
I loved how the book bounced from Summer’s voice to her husband Reppard’s voice, and then Casey’s voice. Who is Casey? He’s the young man whose vehicle struck and killed their little boy. Hearing each perspective made this book so rich. The themes of forgiveness, hope, and love will make you cry and make you smile.
Gracious this is a book our world needs right now. Hope in the midst of suffering? Yes. It’s possible. Such a beautiful, impactful book that I will be thinking about for a long time.
January 18, 2021
Hope Remains is a deeply personal and honest story. You’ll probably laugh, cry...and laugh and cry some more. You will be enamored with Sawyer...a delightfully mischievous, precious, one-of-a-kind little boy! You’ll feel a connection with his parents as they share their story so candidly, with warmth, humor and tears.
This book gives you a grand view of God’s grace, His character, and goodness - in the midst of unimaginable suffering. Hope remains!
This book gives you a grand view of God’s grace, His character, and goodness - in the midst of unimaginable suffering. Hope remains!
February 11, 2021
This book isn't a how-to get over pain, it points us to the One who will hold us in our grief and heal our hearts. Well written and comfort for those walking in grief.
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June 28, 2021See my review here. http://oldoriginalthoughts.blogspot.c...
January 15, 2021
This book dives into the very depths of the authors’ soul. You can feel the emotion, the questioning, and the turmoil each perspective is experiencing. BUT IT DOESN’T STOP THERE. The unexplainable hope shared after such a time of suffering is inspiring! This story encompasses the brokenness of a mother and father, but whose love for Jesus is evident in every line of the story! To the authors: Thank you for being so vulnerable! All you did was share your heart, and now Sawyer’s story will forever impact its’ readers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2021
Truly inspirational, heartfelt book. I cried, I smiled, and even chuckled at some parts; it was an emotional rollercoaster but one that was worth the read and I had a difficult time putting down once I started it. I appreciate how this family can open up and share their journey with Christ. Truly inspiring! No subject was left unturned; grief, marriage counseling, forgiveness, and finding joy when all hope feels lost. This is a book that I will reread and share; it's a reminder of treating each day as it could be your last, value your relationships, but most importantly to value your time with Him.
February 17, 2021
August 8, 2016 is a day that I will never forget. As I was driving home stressing about getting my kids to an appointment on time, what to cook for dinner, stuff I needed to get done, etc. I came around a corner in my neighborhood to find a mom, Summer, not worried about any of these silly things. Instead she was crying and pleading with God to save her sweet son, Sawyer, who had just been hit by a truck and laid in the road. What I saw next and is described in this book is mind blowing to me, even as a faithful Christian. That day and ever since Summer and her family have showed true faith and unbelievable grace.
The Gordon family’s experience is heartbreaking yet their genuine faith, love, and forgiveness in light of such a tremendous and horrible loss has truly inspired me and so many others. Reading the Gordon’s book “Hope Remains” helped me learn more about their amazing family, their beautiful son, and their God centered journey even through the devastating loss of their child.
To get to know this family and be a very small part of their life has been a blessing from above for me. I think about them and pray for them often. I never had the chance to meet Sawyer but I’m inspired by his story that I’m so grateful the Gordon’s were led to share. I hope this book reaches millions to spread hope and shine the light of Sawyer’s sweet spirit and smile.
The Gordon family’s experience is heartbreaking yet their genuine faith, love, and forgiveness in light of such a tremendous and horrible loss has truly inspired me and so many others. Reading the Gordon’s book “Hope Remains” helped me learn more about their amazing family, their beautiful son, and their God centered journey even through the devastating loss of their child.
To get to know this family and be a very small part of their life has been a blessing from above for me. I think about them and pray for them often. I never had the chance to meet Sawyer but I’m inspired by his story that I’m so grateful the Gordon’s were led to share. I hope this book reaches millions to spread hope and shine the light of Sawyer’s sweet spirit and smile.
February 16, 2021
The book leaves you with every emotion under the sun- sometimes individually and sometimes all at once. The heartfelt words poured out on the pages of this book not only envelop the reader, but also make you feel like the Gordons are your family and you are living these moments with them in the present. Their words evoke happiness, sadness, joy, pain, love, anger, longing, and purpose. These pages and the story they hold are both soul and life changing, making the reader see the hands of Jesus on every single aspect of this journey as it develops and plays out right in front of your eyes. You can truly feel the sorrow, pain, love, devotion, and complete surrender to the Lord by both Summer and Reppard, as they walk through what no parent would ever wish to experience. I felt every ounce of pain and then sat in awe of how these amazing human beings could turn this tragedy and trust in Jesus despite it all.
This should be read by anyone, whether you have a personal relationship with Jesus or not. It will definitely shake your being, soul, and your beliefs in every way possible, leading you directly to our Savior! I cannot wait to purchase more for friends and families in every walk of life and help sweet Sawyer continue to change lives for the better.
This should be read by anyone, whether you have a personal relationship with Jesus or not. It will definitely shake your being, soul, and your beliefs in every way possible, leading you directly to our Savior! I cannot wait to purchase more for friends and families in every walk of life and help sweet Sawyer continue to change lives for the better.
February 16, 2021
“Hope Remains” is the perfect title for this book. This book is filled with hope, sadness, grief, laughter, all the while seeing the inspiring goodness of God in every aspect of a family’s life. Summer and Reppard allow you to see what it is like when a family goes through one of the most tragic and unimaginable experiences in ones life. Instead of having bitterness in their hearts and falling into a dark hole they put their faith and trust in God. God has shown them that their beautiful little boy had a “reason” for being alive. A “reason” that this tragic accident happened too. I highly recommend this amazing book to anyone that struggles with the word “why.” I know I have been there and wondered, “why” did this happen to me? “Why” am I going through this? After reading this book I feel a newfound faith in God. I feel the need to trust in him and I understand that he has a plan for me. I will no longer ask the “why” questions to him but instead pray about it and put faith in him.
February 23, 2021
This book is amazing! I couldn’t put it down. You might think it’s only for people that have lost a child or people who struggle with grief. While it is a wonderful source for both those things, it also has so many great bits of truth throughout it for those of us lucky enough to not be dealing with grief. It is written from 3 viewpoints, the mom, the dad and the young man who was driving the truck that killed the little boy. They show you what true forgiveness looks like even when it’s hard to give and hard to receive. You will come away from reading this book with a grateful attitude and a changed perspective. You should get this book for yourself, anyone struggling with grief and anyone that could use some great life lessons.
February 16, 2021
Hope Remains is a beautiful testament to God’s goodness, even in pain and suffering. Losing a child is an unspeakable tragedy, yet Reppard and Summer bravely and vulnerably recount the most difficult time in their lives, giving glory to God with each turn of the page. In true humility, the couple surrenders time and time again to God’s greater plan, allowing Him to shape and refine them using their sorrow and grief for His Kingdom. With Biblical encouragement, the Gordons encourage their readers to see God’s eternal perspective in their story while sharing the opportunity for readers to claim it for themselves, too.
February 19, 2021
As someone on the receiving end of forgiveness, this story meant so much to me. The multifaceted layers of how God forgives us and speaks to our hearts through the Holy spirit is tangible in this book.
I loved the joy that Sawyer gave and continues to give through the legacy of his short time here on this earth. Summer and Reppard take us down the path of hope and show us that we have the ability to let go of bitterness and resentment. The Gordon's will remind you that they are called to look forward and not stay parked in the past. A new life with Sawyer is up ahead. My story does not end with my suffering. Don’t look back, run forward toward your future!
I loved the joy that Sawyer gave and continues to give through the legacy of his short time here on this earth. Summer and Reppard take us down the path of hope and show us that we have the ability to let go of bitterness and resentment. The Gordon's will remind you that they are called to look forward and not stay parked in the past. A new life with Sawyer is up ahead. My story does not end with my suffering. Don’t look back, run forward toward your future!
February 22, 2021
No one is immune to sadness, loss, or grief. Yet, through this book, I learned that HOPE can REMAIN.
How? How does a person/ family walk through fire and laugh again? How can you take a step towards joy after tragedy? Summer and Reppard take us on a journey through this book. They model love, after the One who first loved us. It is through these pages I learned that suffering produces an intimacy with Jesus, if you will give your suffering to Him. I see Jesus in the way the Gordon’s smile, in the ways they’ve reacted to adversity, but most of all in their pure faith in Jesus our Lord and Savior.
How? How does a person/ family walk through fire and laugh again? How can you take a step towards joy after tragedy? Summer and Reppard take us on a journey through this book. They model love, after the One who first loved us. It is through these pages I learned that suffering produces an intimacy with Jesus, if you will give your suffering to Him. I see Jesus in the way the Gordon’s smile, in the ways they’ve reacted to adversity, but most of all in their pure faith in Jesus our Lord and Savior.
February 16, 2021
WOW... what an incredible and inspirational read! If you have dealt or are dealing with a loss of a loved one, struggling to find forgiveness, or experiencing trials within your marriage... THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU! I have personally dealt with all three and this book has brought me so much clarity and understanding to God’s purpose for my own tribulations. Like Reppard Gordon states in the book, “We have to shift the gear of our hurting hearts from park to drive and begin living life on purpose, for His purpose.”
February 17, 2021
It didn’t take me long to read this beautiful story of brokenness & redemption because truth is I couldn’t put it down. In so many seasons of life I can see this being exactly the book I need to pick back up and quickly head to the spots I have highlighted that can help bring me back to focusing on what the truly important things are. I loved seeing this story through multiple lenses and that was definitely my favorite part. It’s a chance to learn from different perspectives. Thank you for sharing your story, your pain, your joy, your heartache & most of all Jesus. ❤️
February 19, 2021
Hope Remains is a powerful and life-changing read. This book dives deep into navigating unfathomable grief and heartache, trusting in Gods plan, and the hope that can only be known through a relationship with Christ alone. No matter what your story is, this book will meet you where you are at and guide you through your own journey of hope and healing. I am thankful for the raw, authentic, and powerful words and lessons that are shared by Summer and Reppard. Sawyers life will continue to bless people around the world through the Hope Remains book.
February 20, 2021
This beautifully written book was full of raw emotion; every page heartfelt, full of meaning and purpose. The heartbreak that the Gordon family endured was absolutely horrific. Summer and Reppard’s faith prevailed from day one and they truly are role models. Role models of hope and what it truly means to fully trust in Jesus. Role models of unfailing love and how to show love and grace in unthinkable situations and times. Role models of how to persevere and truly live a Christian life. I love this family and admire their faith, story, and perspective on life.
February 14, 2021
I've never lost a child but I've been a foster parent who was forced to say goodbye and an adult child grieving an estranged parental relationship.
Summer and Repp shine a critical light into personal places of their lives before and after losing their son Sawyer. Their story offers the hope of the gospel for all our broken places.
Coincidence that this book is released as the world deals with the heart-wrenching loneliness and grief of a pandemic? I think not.
Summer and Repp shine a critical light into personal places of their lives before and after losing their son Sawyer. Their story offers the hope of the gospel for all our broken places.
Coincidence that this book is released as the world deals with the heart-wrenching loneliness and grief of a pandemic? I think not.
February 19, 2021
My mind and heart were absolutely gripped with this incredible story. Tears literally filled my eyes numerous times as I took in the incredible journey that the Gordon family has walked through. With experiencing such a massive loss, I was amazed to see how they clung to the grace and goodness of Jesus through it all. This is an incredible read and will fill your heart with a new perspective in terms of dealing with grief and loss!!!
March 23, 2021
As a parent, this was a tough book to read. I can not imagine the heart break this family went through when they lost their son. Yet time and time again, they chose to trust the Lord, keep their faith and find forgiveness. I loved that it was written from different perspectives and that they were so honest and shared their real, raw emotions. This is a must read, even if you have not walked through a similar tragedy.
July 6, 2021
I’ve had this book sitting on my nightstand for well over 3 months. I wasn’t sure if my heart could handle reading about the loss of a child. I picked it up today and read it from cover to cover. I cried. I cried a lot, but honestly, it’s how they shared their truth and the love for their family and The Lord’s unwavering love for them. The Gordon’s story is raw but so impactful. They are to be commended for sharing their story and how such tragedy has been used for good.
October 3, 2021
Favorite quote:
" You've probably heard the saying "God will never give us more than we can handle"
It's a statement offered with the best of intentions, but it simply isn't true. The reality is, God will allow us to have more than we can handle. Much more. In fact, that phrase places the focus on our strength- " I " can handle it. The problem is, I can't handle it, and I was never intended to handle it on my own.
" You've probably heard the saying "God will never give us more than we can handle"
It's a statement offered with the best of intentions, but it simply isn't true. The reality is, God will allow us to have more than we can handle. Much more. In fact, that phrase places the focus on our strength- " I " can handle it. The problem is, I can't handle it, and I was never intended to handle it on my own.
January 11, 2021
This book will change your life!
Hope Remains is so beautifully written. Yes, this is a book about the tragic loss of a precious child and it will make you cry, but it also a book about hope, forgiveness and a tremendous faith. The Gordon's journey through grief will inspire you to nurture your marriage, squeeze your children and grow closer to the Lord.
Hope Remains is so beautifully written. Yes, this is a book about the tragic loss of a precious child and it will make you cry, but it also a book about hope, forgiveness and a tremendous faith. The Gordon's journey through grief will inspire you to nurture your marriage, squeeze your children and grow closer to the Lord.
February 3, 2021
This inspirational book is written in short snap-shots from three different points of view, taking us through a horrific accident and then how they dealt with the after-effects. It is filled with nuggets of wisdom and refreshing honesty. I came out richer, with a better insight into the grief of losing a child, and the encouragement to take each day as a blessing and live it to its fullest!
February 17, 2021
If you've ever asked how one can survive after the loss of a child then this is the book for you. Summer and Reppard take us on a heartfelt journey of their lives. So much honesty is in this book and it is just beautiful! The way they honor God still in the midst of loss and suffering is such an inspiration! I highly recommend reading this book.
February 18, 2021
This book is a powerful read. I love how the family invites you into their home, their family and their honest thoughts about their life before, during and after their tragedy. This is must read, especially if you have experienced loss or want to know how to help a family after they have experienced loss.
February 20, 2021
This book has made me snails, cry, laugh, and cry some more. This book has touched my soul in a way I never imaged. It helped me not only walk through Sawyer’s death, but helped me get past the deaths of family members that I cherish dearly. There is so much Hope to be had when we lean in to Christ and trust in Him.
February 20, 2021
Beautifully written. An incredible message that will touch so many hearts. Reading both perspectives opened my heart and mind more than I could have imagined and was so engaging. Summer and Reppard Gordon opened their hearts to the world and blessed us with such kind words. I will be sure to gift this book to anyone who needs some hope or understanding.
March 10, 2021
Hope Remains is an incredible testimony of the strength and comfort of Jesus during life's darkest days. This book is an awe-inspiring, first hand account of the power of forgiveness and faith and that forgiveness and faith, with eyes fixed on Him, can turn a tragedy into a beautiful story filled with hope and be used for His good here, on this side of heaven.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews