Siberian youths could not have known the hardships Matthew O'Hearn endured to be standing before them now.
Since birth, 17-year-old Matthew has undergone multiple operations—four on his heart and 12 on his legs. His maladies affect his everyday life; because of his clubbed feet he permanently walks on crutches.
Yet here was Matthew, on the other side of the world, participating in a mission trip with Global Aid Network, the humanitarian arm of Campus Crusade for Christ. "God has brought me through a lot," he says. "A few years ago, this type of trip wouldn't have been possible."
Matthew's father, John (at left, with his son), accompanied him on the trip, which included 28 other people as well.
A medical doctor approved Matthew to go on the trip, though with stern warnings. At times it was difficult for him to get around, and he took extra days in traveling to ease the blow of the jet lag.
But rather than be a hindrance, his physical problems created unique opportunities for ministry—like with the Siberian youths, who were part of a camp for kids with disabilities, near Novokuznetsk. They hung on his every word.
For 10 minutes, Matthew relayed his personal story to them, emphasizing his relationship with God. "Most of society looks down on the handicapped as being inferior to others," he told the group. "But we don't have to let our disabilities dictate our lives. With Christ, we have hope in these circumstances."
Afterward, one of the team members explained how the kids could begin a relationship with God. All eight of the youths indicated decisions to follow Christ.
"Just having Matthew on the trip was a bright light and resounding witness for the grace of the Lord," says Charles Debter, staff member with GAiN. "It was very powerful."
At another point on the trip, Matthew told his story to 30 disabled youths at an orphanage. The trip fueled his zeal for ministry.
"Unless the Lord says otherwise," says Matthew, "I'm going on this trip again next year."
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