Friday Five Interview – Chris Fabry

By Daniel Darling

Today I’m privileged to interview author and radio host, Chris Fabry. Chris is a familiar voice if you’ve been a long-time listener of WMBI in Chicago or Focus on the Family or Love Worth Finding, the radio ministry of the late Dr. Adrian Rogers. Chris is also a prolific author. He partnered with Jerry Jenkins to write the Left Behind Series for Kids and The Red Rock Mystery Series. He has also written biographies with sports figures such as[amazon ASIN=”1414339437″] Drew Brees[/amazon] and[amazon ASIN=”1414325703″] Coach Jim Tressel[/amazon] of Ohio State University.

Chris is the host of Chris Fabry Live and a cohost with his wife, Andrea of Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman. Both are broadcast on the Moody Broadcasting Network.

In 2009, Chris won the Christy Award for his novel, [amazon ASIN=”141431955X”]Dogwood[/amazon]. His latest novel, Junebug, was nominated for a 2010 Christy Award.

What I have admired about Chris, whether through his radio show or his writing, is his sincerity and authenticity. Recently, Chris and his family endured a grueling series of trials that forced them to move from their home and depend on God financially, spiritually, and medically. You can follow their journey through Chris’ website: Chrisfabry.com.

1) You have had a long career in Christian broadcasting, but a few years ago, you began writing again. What prompted you to do that?

I’ve written since I was a kid. I studied journalism in college. But in the mid-1980s after interviewing some great writers, I really felt the desire welling up to put some things down on paper myself. My goal was to write adult fiction, but I had a long road ahead of me. I actually published more than 60 books before I wrote my first adult novel, Dogwood.

2) You’ve done some collaborative work with athletes such as Drew Brees and Coach Jim Tressell on their autobiographies. What is it like to work with these guys?

It’s a great process and a good example of teamwork. They were both fun to work with but different. Drew took what I did and made it so much better with more specific stories. Coach Tressel was hands-on with the content as well and knew what he wanted before we started. Both are so competitive and really great to be around.

3) In 2008, you’re family was forced to move out of your house due to mold issues. Those of us who followed your journey have been inspired by your honesty and faith through the whole process. What has God taught you through this trying season?

I’d have to write a book to answer that one. Trust. I’m not in control. Loss can point you to God more than gains. The most important things come to the surface when you lose a lot. When your kids are sick, God feels more near and there’s nothing more important than clinging to him. It’s been a long road and we’re not at the end yet. We may never be, and that’s okay. One day at a time is our motto now.

4) When you won the Christy Award for Dogwood, that had to be especially gratifying, considering the hardships you’re family has endured.

It felt like God was whispering to keep going and not give up. It was a very emotional and satisfying award, and unexpected!

5) If you could give one piece of advice to someone with a desire to work in Christian media, what would it be?

Be who you are and let God work through your weaknesses. It’s great to have strengths, but God uses your weakness more often than your competency. Keep at it. Don’t give up.