I started reading this book before bed and ended up not going to sleep until I was done. Denver Moore grew up in tragic circumstances as a modern day slave to plantation owners in Louisiana. Sharecropping changed black men from slaves to indentured servants--different in name only. Denver left the fields of Louisiana for the rails and the streets. At some point he ends up in prison in Lousiana, and then back to the streets of Fort Worth, Texas, where he lives life as a hardened homeless man.

Ron Hall pursued the American dream of prosperity and materialism. His wife pursued God. As Deborah is called to serve the homeless, Ron joins her in support. This changes their lives as they meet Denver Moore, whom Deborah knows will be a factor in the transformation of the area and the homeless living there. Except that Denver is a mean, cold, homeless man.

The thing I love about this story is how the simple yet powerful act of showing God's love truly does transform lives. I also have a huge appreciation for the uncomplicated wisdom, faith, and perspective of a man who many would characterize as uncivilized, uneducated, less deserving, etc. Denver's reliance on prayer made a powerful impression on me. And having realized tragedy myself, I appreciate the reality check that prayers are always answered--not always the way we want, but the way it should be. Without trials and tribulation, there would be no hero. Without a hero, there would be no story. Without a story, there is no life as life is made up of vignettes of loving, learning and overcoming.

I recommend this book for anyone weary in their faith because it seems so complicated. The faith of a child is simple. Yes, there is much to learn...