This book is by Ron Hall and Denver Moore, published by Thomas Nelson. This is the true story of the unlikely friendship between a homeless black man and a wealthy art dealer from Fort Worth. It’s also the story of Deborah Hall, Ron’s wife, a Christian who was called — driven — to minister to homeless persons in the poorest section of the city. One day while volunteering at the Union Gospel Mission, Debbie nudged Ron to reach out to Denver, who had wandered in for a free meal.
Leading up to this moment, Denver tells us how he came to be homeless on the streets of Fort Worth and Ron relates his journey to become one of the richest men in Texas.
Though the friendship begins at Debbie’s urging, it develops into a deep and supportive relationship. Then, Deborah is diagnosed with cancer and dies after a short battle with the disease. We all are left to wonder why this happens when someone is doing so much good in the world and living a life devoted to Christ. Denver, though crushed himself, is able to offer comfort, spiritual wisdom and insight to Ron during this time. Together they vow that the work Deborah started will continue.
Same Kind of Different as Me was on the New York Times Bestseller List in 2008 and has since been added to many high school reading lists, a fact I find surprising for a story about the Christian faith.
Denver and Ron are sill friends and continue to minister to people who need to experience God’s love. Denver says at the end of the book, “So, in a way, we is all homeless — just workin our way toward home.”
For more information about the book and authors visit samekindofdifferentasme.com
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