After the book was greenlit for publication, Lacey was diagnosed with bladder cancer. He continued to work on the book and has stated that "Working on this really kept me sane" and that "Because the Bible deals with the big issues--like life and death.
Following the greenlight for his book, Lacey was diagnosed with bladder cancer.  He persevered in writing it, stating that "Working on this helped keep me sane" and that "The Bible addresses major themes like life and death."