The Judges' Save

This year on American Idol, a new rule has been instituted...the "judges' save." I'm a creature of change and embrace it openly, but after adding a fourth judge this year and now this rule, I wasn't sure I was so keen on the concept. The rule goes into play after America votes. If the judges' panel deem the singer voted off worthy of a second chance, they receive the save and return for another week. The downside? The following week two folks get voted off. This "save" can only be used one time during the season. My initial flag-waving personality felt like this was an incringement on democracy...as socialism comes creeping in the door via the Fox Channel. But I hate to been an extremist, so I decided to give change a chance.

Week before last, the "save" was used on Matt Giraud. I have to say, I like Matt. He reminds me a bit of Michael Buble' (sigh) and although not a consistent performer, when he shows out, he really shows out. As much as I was against this new rule, I have to say, watching it unfold was powerful for me. Matt sang his supposed swan song as the judges debated on what to do. Matt's life is hanging in the balance. When the decision had to be made, Simon said "Matt, you have very little chance of winning this competition" (Agreed) "But, it's good news, we're saving you." The crowd went wild, Matt hugged Ryan and he lived to see another week. And, amazingly, he made it through the double elimination week as we saw Anoop-Dog and Lil Rounds say sayonara to the show.

Why was this so powerful for me? It reminded me of my eternal salvation. I can stand and sing a beautiful song. I can do good things and be applauded for what I've done. I can be as obedient as I can be during this journey on earth. But, the bottom line is, only the Ultimate Judge, the Savior of the World can save me. Because the truth is no matter how beautiful the song may sound or good the deeds that are done, I'm sinful. I have no way of working to achieve this salvation on my own. The Judge is the One who saves me.

Matt's life was hanging in the balance. The words of Simon rang so true in my ears "You have very little chance of winning this competition." My life was hanging in the balance. And, I hear Christ say, "You have no chance of eternal life without Me." I hear Simon say "It's good news, we're saving you." And, I hear my Lord say, "I bring you Good News, I died for you and I'm saving you." Although Matt may never make it to the final round and win American Idol, I know that my Judges' Save has secured me an eternal home with Him forever...where I can sing His Praises throughout all eternity.