Sabbath, May 9 – Blessing of Deafness

Blessing of Deafness – Mission Story

Narrator: Obiero

Author: Gina Wahlen

Main Character: Obiero

Location: Kisii, Kenya

This mission story, “Blessing of Deafness,” shows how God can turn what seems like a limitation into a powerful purpose for His work.

Mission Story Summary

• Obiero is the principal of a Seventh-day Adventist school for deaf children in Kenya, where he works to change how people understand deafness.
• In some communities, deafness is seen as a punishment for sin, so some families hide their children instead of sending them to school.
• Obiero knows this is not true because of his own experience.
• He was born with normal hearing but lost it after receiving medicine while being treated for malaria at the age of 13.
• His hearing slowly faded, and by age 14 he could no longer hear at all, which left him discouraged and confused.
• During this time, he found hope in the Bible, especially in God’s promise of a future and a purpose for his life.
• He began to see that his deafness was not a punishment but part of God’s plan to help others.
• Obiero completed his education and later became a teacher at Mwata Adventist School for the Deaf.
• He eventually became the principal of the school.
• Today, the school serves dozens of children, giving them education, life skills, and knowledge of the Bible.
• The children learn that Jesus loves them and that one day He will restore all things, including their hearing.
• Many students have accepted Christ and been baptized, showing that the school is not only teaching but also leading souls to God.

Key Lesson From the Story

• What may seem like a limitation can become a blessing in God’s hands.

What This Means for You

• Trust God even when life does not make sense.
• See value in every person, regardless of their condition.
• Support mission work that reaches overlooked groups.

The Project We Are Contributing To

• A previous Thirteenth Sabbath Offering helped expand Mwata Adventist School for the Deaf.
• New buildings were constructed, including dormitories and better dining facilities for the children.
• This support has improved both learning and daily life at the school.
• This quarter, mission offerings will also support Merisho Advent Community Nursery School in Kenya, which teaches children about God at an early age.

Reflection

• How can you support or encourage someone who may feel overlooked or misunderstood?

Continue Studying

You can also explore:

• More Mission Stories
• Sabbath School Lesson Studies
• Devotional Resources

Final Takeaway

This mission story, “Blessing of Deafness,” reminds us that what the world may see as a weakness, God can use as a blessing to serve others.