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Rush of Heaven: One Woman’s Miraculous Encounter with Jesus
“Ema, give me your hand.” These were the words Jesus spoke to Ema on Christmas Eve before He straightened her crooked foot, hand, neck, and spine, and restored her mobility.
Easter weekend, eighteen years earlier, an ordinary workday turned into a nightmare when Ema McKinley passed out and was left hanging upside down in the storage room.
Rather than improving, Ema’s body became progressively bent and disfigured. Doctors diagnosed Ema with reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), an extremely painful trauma-induced disease which led to Ema’s hand and foot deformities, painful sores, insomnia, gastrological distress, curvature of the neck and spine, heart and lung failure, and permanent confinement to a wheelchair.
Once an athletic, powerhouse woman with multiple jobs and volunteer positions, Ema became a modern-day Job who lost everything except her faith and desire to trust God more fully. Ema wrestled with pain, anger, and unforgiveness, but now takes the reader on a healing miracle encounter of Biblical proportions.
Rush of Heaven will ignite readers’ passion for Jesus and help them walk hand-in-hand with Him through life’s darkness. It will open hearts to embrace the impossible.
“Jesus gave me this miracle for you too!” — Ema McKinley
Easter weekend, eighteen years earlier, an ordinary workday turned into a nightmare when Ema McKinley passed out and was left hanging upside down in the storage room.
Rather than improving, Ema’s body became progressively bent and disfigured. Doctors diagnosed Ema with reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), an extremely painful trauma-induced disease which led to Ema’s hand and foot deformities, painful sores, insomnia, gastrological distress, curvature of the neck and spine, heart and lung failure, and permanent confinement to a wheelchair.
Once an athletic, powerhouse woman with multiple jobs and volunteer positions, Ema became a modern-day Job who lost everything except her faith and desire to trust God more fully. Ema wrestled with pain, anger, and unforgiveness, but now takes the reader on a healing miracle encounter of Biblical proportions.
Rush of Heaven will ignite readers’ passion for Jesus and help them walk hand-in-hand with Him through life’s darkness. It will open hearts to embrace the impossible.
“Jesus gave me this miracle for you too!” — Ema McKinley
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2014
343 people are currently reading
374 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
August 19, 2017
Simply amazing
I am amazed I've never heard the story of Ema McKinley before reading this book. To say her story is uplifting is an understatement. Her attitude towards life throughout her heartbreaking medical condition is second to none. I can see why she was divinely healed and will be a walking testimony for the rest of her life
I am amazed I've never heard the story of Ema McKinley before reading this book. To say her story is uplifting is an understatement. Her attitude towards life throughout her heartbreaking medical condition is second to none. I can see why she was divinely healed and will be a walking testimony for the rest of her life
March 2, 2015
Wow. What a story. Ema’s cheerful faith shines brightly throughout the book, even when she is in situations that would warrant complete despair. But Jesus Himself is truly the main character – not just His miraculous power to heal – but also His power to keep Ema going through eighteen torturous years.
Cheryl Ricker’s writing brings the story to life. While I’ve known Cheryl for years, I never once heard Cheryl’s voice. Only Ema’s. And that takes true writing talent. The book is well organized and reads exceptionally well. Cheryl gave Ema’s phenomenal story the faithful rendering it deserved. Thank you for a touching and inspiring read.
Cheryl Ricker’s writing brings the story to life. While I’ve known Cheryl for years, I never once heard Cheryl’s voice. Only Ema’s. And that takes true writing talent. The book is well organized and reads exceptionally well. Cheryl gave Ema’s phenomenal story the faithful rendering it deserved. Thank you for a touching and inspiring read.
November 5, 2019
This was an amazing testimony! Ema never gave up on her prayers, no matter what she faced. I loved it!
October 23, 2014
God still moves! Sometimes God shows up when we least expect Him--when our circumstances seem hopeless. Ema McKinley's faith story offers hope to the hopeless as she gives a detailed account of her tragedy, years of suffering, and ultimate healing.
Plus, Cheryl Ricker does an awesome job of telling Ema's story. You don't want to miss this powerful memoir!
Plus, Cheryl Ricker does an awesome job of telling Ema's story. You don't want to miss this powerful memoir!
September 9, 2017
Awesome
I almost quit reading it because it was depressing to read what this poor woman went through. But I didn't and glad that I finished because I would have missed the blessing.
I almost quit reading it because it was depressing to read what this poor woman went through. But I didn't and glad that I finished because I would have missed the blessing.
June 24, 2019
This is a must read book.
Ema's story is mind blowing with everything she went through. As I read about her journey and how she was made to jump through so many hoops in order to keep her insurance, I got so angry and frustrated by both her employer and the insurance company who didn't want to pay for any of her bills for treatment,medications,or doctors even though the court case said they had to. It made me sick to learn that if they hadn't forced her to return to work to keep her insurance there was a very high probability that she would of recovered . Their actions repeatedly made her condition worse making her a prisoner in her wheelchair for 18 years. As she shares her journey you can't believe how much she went through and the extreme pain that never stopped. Ema is an amazing woman who never let her circumstances stop her and used her faith to deal with everything. I never thought that I would ever encounter another person who endured as many health issues as I have because it's not a fun club to be in. Her story and journey has shown me not to ever give up and to continue to give it to God. I highly recommend you read this book and share it with others.
Ema's story is mind blowing with everything she went through. As I read about her journey and how she was made to jump through so many hoops in order to keep her insurance, I got so angry and frustrated by both her employer and the insurance company who didn't want to pay for any of her bills for treatment,medications,or doctors even though the court case said they had to. It made me sick to learn that if they hadn't forced her to return to work to keep her insurance there was a very high probability that she would of recovered . Their actions repeatedly made her condition worse making her a prisoner in her wheelchair for 18 years. As she shares her journey you can't believe how much she went through and the extreme pain that never stopped. Ema is an amazing woman who never let her circumstances stop her and used her faith to deal with everything. I never thought that I would ever encounter another person who endured as many health issues as I have because it's not a fun club to be in. Her story and journey has shown me not to ever give up and to continue to give it to God. I highly recommend you read this book and share it with others.
November 19, 2017
This is one amazing testimony of an amazing woman. The pain, misfortune and twisting of her body after an accident at work left her with RSD (reflexive sympathetic dystrophy). For 18 years, as her body deteriorated and the medical field had nothing to offer for relief, she kept her faith, tried to keep a smile on her face and to speak encouragingly to others. One Christmas Eve morning, Jesus entered her office after she had spent 8 hours in agonizing pain when her wheelchair tipped over. He brought healing to much of her body, and she was able to astonish her family on Christmas Day by walking to them after being in a wheelchair permanently for many years. What a wonderful story of how God keeps us through the toughest times and is always with us. I would recommend this book.
June 21, 2018
I pray I have the opportunity to meet this incredible woman! Emma has a horrific accident at work that causes her to develop RSD. She has a horribly mangled foot that is permanently swollen, a club hand, and a spine so crooked she’s stuck at a 90 degree angle. In addition the nerve pain she has is completely out of control. But through this experience she keeps her faith and optimistic outlook.
Then on Christmas Eve 2011, almost 20 years later, she falls when she’s home alone. While on the floor, thinking she’s going to die, she finds Yeshua (Jesus) in her room. What happens next is an absolute miracle.
I highly recommend this book. Having been through some terrible times myself, I found Ema’s faith inspiring and her optimism is refreshing.
Then on Christmas Eve 2011, almost 20 years later, she falls when she’s home alone. While on the floor, thinking she’s going to die, she finds Yeshua (Jesus) in her room. What happens next is an absolute miracle.
I highly recommend this book. Having been through some terrible times myself, I found Ema’s faith inspiring and her optimism is refreshing.
September 15, 2019
What an incredible story!
Ema had a deep faith before her accident and the daily struggles after push her into the arms of Jesus even more. I already knew God was real before this book; as a Christian though, I am in awe of Ema's constant faithfulness to Jesus. Her love for Him, her trust in Him, never faltered. She is an example to us all in how we should be seeking His counsel and strength. I do not face the trials and physical pain that Ema did, but I do have trials and pain in my life - thank you for helping me grow in my faith!
If you enjoy seeing the faith journey of other Christians, this is a winner!
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. This is my honest review.
Ema had a deep faith before her accident and the daily struggles after push her into the arms of Jesus even more. I already knew God was real before this book; as a Christian though, I am in awe of Ema's constant faithfulness to Jesus. Her love for Him, her trust in Him, never faltered. She is an example to us all in how we should be seeking His counsel and strength. I do not face the trials and physical pain that Ema did, but I do have trials and pain in my life - thank you for helping me grow in my faith!
If you enjoy seeing the faith journey of other Christians, this is a winner!
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. This is my honest review.
August 28, 2022
Amazing book! Ema went through such a scary ordeal that wouldn’t end for 18.5 YEARS. I am inspired by her faith and how even through it all she continued to put Jesus first in her life. I know she had ups and downs, but overall she wouldn’t allow those to bring her down. Then the experience she was gifted that brought about her healing was amazing. Almost unbelievable. She even provides her medical records for anyone interested into diving into more of the details or who still can’t believe her story. I personally skipped those and jumped to the photos at the back. This is a story that will stick with me forever and it’s all TRUE!!
June 27, 2021
Wow!
Hard to really explain. If not started by a peek at the outcome, I don't think I could have read the whole thing. So gut wrenching, so painful walking through her journey and most of all, wrapping my head around the why. It made me rethink my commitment to my Savior. I have been searching my heart and desirous for the Lord to change me in whatever way He needs to as I fell I fall way short of what it REALLY means to honor Jesus with my own life. Absolutely recommended reading for every Christian. Search our hearts Oh Lord!
Hard to really explain. If not started by a peek at the outcome, I don't think I could have read the whole thing. So gut wrenching, so painful walking through her journey and most of all, wrapping my head around the why. It made me rethink my commitment to my Savior. I have been searching my heart and desirous for the Lord to change me in whatever way He needs to as I fell I fall way short of what it REALLY means to honor Jesus with my own life. Absolutely recommended reading for every Christian. Search our hearts Oh Lord!
August 24, 2017
Inspirational Miracle
When you need to put perspective in your life because there are painful, hard, emotional and gut-wrenching situations -- this is your book. Ema's story of courage and persistent faith humbles you. She gives all the glory to God, and how she withstood such grave circumstances defies the imagination. The short section on her miracle had to be read many times. Awe-inspiring faith that will carry you far. Recommend!
When you need to put perspective in your life because there are painful, hard, emotional and gut-wrenching situations -- this is your book. Ema's story of courage and persistent faith humbles you. She gives all the glory to God, and how she withstood such grave circumstances defies the imagination. The short section on her miracle had to be read many times. Awe-inspiring faith that will carry you far. Recommend!
October 16, 2017
I gave this maximum stars because it was just so incredible and the main character's faith just shines through an unbelievable ordeal. Her testimony needs to be shared far and wide. Who knows why some are healed and some are not? And yet, the message of this book is what all of us need to hear whatever our situation. Emma McKinley introduces us to a God who will walk with us through the joys but also the dark places in our lives. He never leaves us.
November 10, 2019
GOD’s Miracle
I laughed,I wept, I empathized with Ema throughout her story.
Her strength and prayers resonated in my heart.
Living with the pain of Fibromyalgia, and never knowing what symptoms might occur next, I can somewhat understand what she was going through.
Her relationship with God and her words of witness, have greatly given me hope and inspiration to continue smiling, trusting Jesus, and giving others, his message of love and hope of miracles in their lives.
I laughed,I wept, I empathized with Ema throughout her story.
Her strength and prayers resonated in my heart.
Living with the pain of Fibromyalgia, and never knowing what symptoms might occur next, I can somewhat understand what she was going through.
Her relationship with God and her words of witness, have greatly given me hope and inspiration to continue smiling, trusting Jesus, and giving others, his message of love and hope of miracles in their lives.
December 29, 2019
If you do not believe in miracles and the good lord up above, you need to read this story.
I liked the whole story. She is an amazing lady who never lost faith and asked the lord for his help not only for herself but others. She never went without a smile on her face or encouraging words for all. She deserved the miracle that made her able to stand tall and get out of her wheelchair. Believe is what all should do and have faith.
I liked the whole story. She is an amazing lady who never lost faith and asked the lord for his help not only for herself but others. She never went without a smile on her face or encouraging words for all. She deserved the miracle that made her able to stand tall and get out of her wheelchair. Believe is what all should do and have faith.
December 30, 2019
Wow! Wow! Wow! Come on God! What an amazing God we serve. The book was kind of hard to get through because Ema suffered so much. There were missed opportunities right from the beginning, doctors unfamiliar with her case who prescribed the wrong treatment, horrible Workman's Comp person who just wanted to get her off the rolls. Sure hope Claire Rhodes got saved. Good read to end the year on.
August 28, 2020
Such an inspiring woman ,i Will read this book again.I recommend this book to anyone who wants to see how God's miracles are still working today .I liked everything about this book The biblical references ,the courage and strength of this woman! Her constant trust in Jesus .
I will recommend this book to all Of my friends and family.I'm thankful Emma shared her story of her love for Jesus
I will recommend this book to all Of my friends and family.I'm thankful Emma shared her story of her love for Jesus
October 11, 2020
Jesus does heal
Loved the book. It reminded me of the time I was 12 years old and dying. I woke up to an Angel holding my hand. I was scare all I could hear was my heart pounding. I felt safe and the pain was gone. I thought he was giving me the answer to my prayers and take me to Heaven. Instead he said to me "the Lord has decided to heal you and you need to go back to sleep." The Lord found me and made me His when I was 10 years old. Your sister in Christ Sharon
Loved the book. It reminded me of the time I was 12 years old and dying. I woke up to an Angel holding my hand. I was scare all I could hear was my heart pounding. I felt safe and the pain was gone. I thought he was giving me the answer to my prayers and take me to Heaven. Instead he said to me "the Lord has decided to heal you and you need to go back to sleep." The Lord found me and made me His when I was 10 years old. Your sister in Christ Sharon
December 9, 2020
God is still in the Miracle Business
Awesome Book it draws you in make you smile it makes you cry but most all it shows the power or praying. Psalm 27:14 "Wait on the Lord, be strong and take heart and wait for Lord. or Romans 12:12 - "Rejoice in hope be patient in tribulations be constant in prayer.
Trust in the Lord. Her faith never waverly even in her darkest moments. He promise never to leave us or foresake us.
Awesome Book it draws you in make you smile it makes you cry but most all it shows the power or praying. Psalm 27:14 "Wait on the Lord, be strong and take heart and wait for Lord. or Romans 12:12 - "Rejoice in hope be patient in tribulations be constant in prayer.
Trust in the Lord. Her faith never waverly even in her darkest moments. He promise never to leave us or foresake us.
March 17, 2023
I was lent this book to read, and I found her faith in God and scripture quotes to be uplifting! Emma also reminded me of the importance of prayer in everything you do. I would have liked to read more about how she had to stayed in her wheel chair all the time?? and how did she look after herself when everyone left her in the house?? and some of the projects she worked on, how did she find the strength/energy to do all those things??
February 25, 2018
Rush of Heaven is a true story about Ema McKinley being healed after a traumatic injury that kept her bent at a 90° angle for 7 years while she hung over the side of the wheelchair she was confined to for 15. She ended the book with photos for all the doubters. This story will open your heart to embrace the impossible.
April 18, 2018
This was a special and beautiful book. Her sincerity is moving, her devotion inspiring, and the ending miracle is breathtaking. I never usually cry with books or movies but I could hardly hold back my tears then. I've read it to my husband twice (I read to him on long car trips) and he loves it as well.
December 3, 2018
A true story of pain and recovery
I found this story painful to read because Ema suffered so greatly. However, this is a story of a miraculous healing and recovery so eventually the narrative is joyful.
A strong testimony of a faithful Christian woman where she gives the glory to God of her miracle healing by Jesus.
I found this story painful to read because Ema suffered so greatly. However, this is a story of a miraculous healing and recovery so eventually the narrative is joyful.
A strong testimony of a faithful Christian woman where she gives the glory to God of her miracle healing by Jesus.
December 27, 2018
Unbelievable faith
The best story I have ever read. This shows how faithful our GOD is . I now hopefully will have a More positive outlook on life. If Ema can live with her pain and agony like she does I will try my hardest hit to complain about everyday little aches and pains.
Praise to the author for doing an amazing job.
The best story I have ever read. This shows how faithful our GOD is . I now hopefully will have a More positive outlook on life. If Ema can live with her pain and agony like she does I will try my hardest hit to complain about everyday little aches and pains.
Praise to the author for doing an amazing job.
June 21, 2019
Miracle of miracles
What a story. Sometimes it was hard to read because of the incredible pain this woman suffered but woman I comfortable spirit. She truly knows Jesus and reminds us all of the importance of learning why we need to walk and talk with him at all times and through all we experience in life. Her attitude of gratitude is one we would all do well to cultivate.
What a story. Sometimes it was hard to read because of the incredible pain this woman suffered but woman I comfortable spirit. She truly knows Jesus and reminds us all of the importance of learning why we need to walk and talk with him at all times and through all we experience in life. Her attitude of gratitude is one we would all do well to cultivate.
November 5, 2019
10+
I felt so very awful and so terribly sorry about her accident. Thank God she had all the wonderful caregivers but most importantly, she had Jesus. She is a very brave lady with an amazing attitude. I feel very blessed to have bought her book and read it. To all readers out there, you should definitely read this amazing and uplifting book.
I felt so very awful and so terribly sorry about her accident. Thank God she had all the wonderful caregivers but most importantly, she had Jesus. She is a very brave lady with an amazing attitude. I feel very blessed to have bought her book and read it. To all readers out there, you should definitely read this amazing and uplifting book.
December 29, 2019
A Miracle
I gave this book 4 stars, because I can definitely relate to Ms. McKinleys' illness. I have Lupus, and have dealt with pain, not as severe, but still pain. I have had 4 hip revisions. (1913 - 2019.). The last surgery left me with the right leg 3 inches longer than the left. If I could give this book 5 stars I would.
I gave this book 4 stars, because I can definitely relate to Ms. McKinleys' illness. I have Lupus, and have dealt with pain, not as severe, but still pain. I have had 4 hip revisions. (1913 - 2019.). The last surgery left me with the right leg 3 inches longer than the left. If I could give this book 5 stars I would.
October 27, 2021
Beautiful A Story of Heavenly Patience
This was an inspiring story of great faith and patience and.love. It is easy for people to often claim they are trusting in God's power, but it is harder to actually do it. Praise Jesus for his everlasting love. It is all expressed in such truth through this story.
This was an inspiring story of great faith and patience and.love. It is easy for people to often claim they are trusting in God's power, but it is harder to actually do it. Praise Jesus for his everlasting love. It is all expressed in such truth through this story.
November 23, 2021
One of the best non fiction books for everyone to read
I chose this rating because it is wonderful n satisfying to know that Jesus hears our praises, cries, and prayers always. Ema's experience was really an eye opener for me and to think she spent her years of illness with a brave heart, spirit and smiles as she continued to help others any way she could.
I chose this rating because it is wonderful n satisfying to know that Jesus hears our praises, cries, and prayers always. Ema's experience was really an eye opener for me and to think she spent her years of illness with a brave heart, spirit and smiles as she continued to help others any way she could.
September 19, 2018
This was suggested to me by a long family friend. It was so great how Jesus came down and touched and healed her. Yes, there are still miracles today! Our book club is reading it for discussion on Monday. Excited to see what the other ladies thought of the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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