“How do you scare some sense into a child who doesn’t fear death?”
This assertion follows Colton’s response in regard to him risking crossing the road and being hit by a vehicle. Todd attempts to scare him against carelessly crossing the road but he answers that if he dies he will simply go to heaven. Colton having gone through a near-death appearance, changes his perspective which sees him profoundly observe life. The parent’s duty is to teach their offspring about life and caution them against choices that are risky or unproductive. However, what happens when a child becomes more profound than the parents? This is Todd’s predicament in raising his child who is more enlightened following his near-death experience.
“You might as well tell God what you think. He already knows it anyway.”
The entirety of the novel is about the Christian belief and faith therefore it charts Todd’s strengthening and also questioning of his faith. In the assertion, Todd highlights how prayer should not always be thought-out or profound but just genuine. According to him, since God is with us and understands our thoughts at all times then he already knows. Therefore, prayers should be exactly that rather than a collection of words that we think is more saintly.
“Now was not the time to quit and mourn. Now was the time for prayer and action.”
As much as the book is about the miracle that is Colton’s recovery, it is also about grief and the subsequent healing. The statement comes during Colton’s ailment and emergency surgery which tests the faith of the Burpos. However, Todd keeps his belief strong and does not intend to give up yet but keep on praying. Thus, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit and furthermore the strength of faith.
