Back In December, our athletic director received an invitation to bring a team of coaches to try out for Jeff Foxworthy’s American Bible Challenge game show. Four of us went to a small building in downtown Atlanta to compete for a spot. There were probably thirty other teams trying out too, but being the humble coaches we are, we knew we were the best group there.
First we had to take a written test on Bible knowledge and we all were sure we scored above 95%. Next we had to interview on camera to allow the decision makers to see how we would handle the bright lights and glory. All four of us were relaxed and comfortable as we answered questions on camera.
Not only were there representatives from the game show, but NBC also had representatives in the room who wanted to do a story on the Game Show Network. Deep down we believed NBC and GSN were in the room with a stellar team… smart, witty, good-looking… we were in our element.
After at least twenty minutes of questions, the interviewer said he wanted us to close with a brief testimony regarding the place the Bible had played in our lives. Tim, Kristy, and Taylor all shared great things, giving credit to parents and teachers who taught Scripture as a way of life.
I was the last to be interviewed so I decided to share about being diagnosed with cancer in 2000. “As I prepared for a dreaded stem cell transplant in 2001, a dear friend gave me a note that looked like a doctor’s prescription: Read 100 X – Psalm 23. This is the chapter in the Bible that says, ‘The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.’” (vv 1-3)
The dozen strangers in the room were listening intently so I continued, “We all love the Bible and it does contain a lot of trivia, but we want you to know that it is true.
“Jesus did go with me like a Shepherd through ‘the valley of the shadow of death.’ God is real and his Word gives us life. We’re talking about more than just a book.”
After we were dismissed, one of the guys from NBC pulled me aside and asked if he could have a word. “First,” he said, “I’m sorry about your health. How are you doing now?” I told him I felt great and was thankful for the last twelve years. The man then looked me straight in the eye and asked, “Was what you said in there true? Is there really a God who walks with you that way?” I had about one minute to encourage him with the the hope we have in Christ.
We’re still waiting for a call from Hollywood. There are only two possibilities I can entertain: Either they lost our file or we were overqualified. Oh well, I guess ‘that’s show biz…’
“I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table for me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of The Lord forever.” Psalm 23:4-6