Akiane Kramarik’s painting “Prince of Peace,” a serene portrait of Jesus created when she was just 8 years old, recently resurfaced after being stolen, mistakenly sold, and hidden for 16 years.

Now 28, Akiane—a best-selling author and philanthropist—says the painting was inspired by a “visionary inspiration” from God. “His voice is soft and lovely,” she shared. Raised in a secular household in Idaho, Akiane’s sudden spiritual experience surprised her family. Her mother, Forelli Kramarik, explained, “We didn’t go to church, pray, or talk about God.”

A vision of a carpenter drove Akiane to create the portrait. After searching for a model, she prayed, and a carpenter who looked like Jesus appeared at their door. “I told my mother that was him,” she said.

Following years of legal battles, Akiane recovered the painting and sold it to a private collector. “Prince of Peace” is now exhibited at the Belóved Gallery in Marble Falls, Texas. Akiane reflects, “It’s still surreal… Love is incredibly powerful.”