As Newton invited Michael up to the platform to share more of his story, people in the congregation began to walk up to the front and lay cash by Newton. He ended up asking them to hold off for a bit as he processed the profound aspects of the moment.
“Loading him up with a ton of money and putting him back on the street—that’s not what we’re doing,” Newton said. “That’s not what we’re doing.” He did assure the church that they were going to help Anthony get back on his feet.
How a Congregant Was Prompted To Bring a Homeless Man to Church
Michael had been attending Community Bible Church (CBC) periodically since he was in college and more frequently over the last year. Newton wanted to know more about what prompted Michael to pick up Anthony and bring him to church—especially given the nature of the sermon on life change.
As Michael and Pastor Newton chatted during the service, Michael shared that he had attended a previous service that morning. “I didn’t intend on any of this happening,” Michael said.
When Michael left the earlier service, he spotted an unhoused woman by the street asking for money. Michael picked up some food for her, but by the time he returned, she had left. He then spotted Anthony lying down in front of another building and offered him food.
Anthony began to share about some of his “hardships” and that he’s in a “bad patch right now.” Anthony asked Michael to take him to church.
During the service, Anthony joined Newton and Michael up front, and Newton embraced him in a big hug. “Hey, man. It’s an honor. Let me hug you,” he said.
“I was about to run in front of a truck and kill myself,” Anthony shared.
Newton was moved by Anthony’s story and shared of similar stories that Jesus told. “Jesus tells the story of leaving the 99,” he said. “He tells a story about a father who loses his son who makes some bad choices and ends up on on skid row.”
“That’s me,” whispered Anthony.
The preacher told the rest of the story of the Prodigal Son and mentioned how fitting it was to see the same played out during the service.
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