Through My Eyes by Tim Tebow

Like any Christian parent, I want to surround my boys with as many good influences as possible.  When I saw that Tim Tebow had written a book targeted for my son's age range I knew I had to check it out!  My 9 year-old son is a bit obsessed with sports.  Playing sports...sports video games...sports books...sports movies...you name it.  And he just got done playing his first season of football as the back-up quarterback.  Yes, this book will find it's way under my Christmas tree. 

What is so special about Tim Tebow?  He is committed to using his popularity to share his faith and raise money for missions.  He spends his time ministering in prisons, hospitals, and overseas.  In college he would write a Scripture passage on his eye-black patches in order to have the opportunity to share his faith.  Yes, he is driven to excel athletically, but he also knows that there is more to this life and gives God the glory for his success.

The message presented in this book that I hope my son will hear loud and clear is this: trust in Jesus, honor your parents, work hard, be thankful in all things, stick up for others, and finish strong.  Tim says "For me, leaving something behind is more about being rewarded in heaven.  Seeing a plaque or trophy with my name on it sure is nice.  But God wants us to make a difference in the world...I want to act in a way that causes the people I help to want to help others.  Finish strong and you help not just yourself - you help others."

I like that each chapter begins with a key verse, one that kids could understand and focus on.  Sometimes the football game details got a bit much for me, but I know my son won't have any trouble following along!  I am simply thankful that a professional athlete would use his influence over the younger generation to speak to them about living godly lives, and provide an example for them to follow. 

NOTE: Be aware that there are two versions of this book, both with the same title.  One is for adults, and the other (on which this review is based) is a Young Readers edition.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.