On this episode of The Hope Dealer, Matt continues his powerful conversation with Aaron Burrell, a former gang member and drug dealer whose life has been radically transformed through faith in Jesus Christ.
Picking up where they left off, Aaron shares how his time at Portland’s City Team became a turning point in his recovery. For a man who once responded to disrespect with violence, learning humility, self-control, forgiveness, and genuine love was an entirely new way of living. Aaron describes the impact of serving others, including washing the feet of people experiencing homelessness, and how those experiences helped soften a heart hardened by years of criminality.
Aaron also opens up about rebuilding his family relationships, celebrating his marriage and the opportunity to baptize his wife, while acknowledging the painful consequences of his past choices, particularly his strained relationships with his daughters. His journey is one of continued growth, learning to surrender control, trust God’s timing, and extend grace even when life doesn’t turn out as hoped.
Matt and Aaron discuss the importance of repentance, accountability, and spiritual growth, emphasizing that salvation doesn’t make life’s struggles disappear. Aaron also shares how he’s now serving others through street and prison ministry, returning to places where he once spread fear and violence – this time bringing a message of hope.
The conversation closes with Aaron’s plans to launch Tilted Halos, his own nonprofit ministry, and a shared commitment to reaching people who may believe they’re beyond redemption.
It’s a compelling reminder that a transformed life isn’t simply about leaving the past behind – it’s about using that past to bring hope, healing, and the Gospel to others.
