Gladys Aylward: A Life Devoted to Spreading God’s Love Across Borders

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Gladys Aylward: A Life Devoted to Spreading God's Love Across Borders

Gladys Aylward’s life story reads like an epic tale of faith, courage, and unwavering determination. Born into a working-class family in London in 1902, Aylward’s journey from a parlor maid to a missionary in China is a testament to her extraordinary resolve and devotion to her calling. Her work left an indelible mark on the lives of many. Particularly the orphans she rescued and cared for during tumultuous times.

Early Life and Calling

Aylward’s early years were humble, with her formal education ending at fourteen. She found employment as a parlor maid, which she enjoyed despite its demands. However, her life dramatically turned in her mid-twenties when she attended a revival meeting. That night, Aylward became a Christian, and her newfound faith completely transformed her life’s focus.

She joined the Young Life Campaign, dedicating her off days to learning how to share the gospel. Aylward felt a strong call to serve in China through one of their magazines, where many had yet to hear the Christian message. Despite her lack of formal education and being in her late twenties, she presented as a candidate for the China Inland Mission in 1929.

Although initially accepted into their training program, Aylward was asked to leave after three months. Undeterred, she returned to her maid work, saving money to fund her journey to China. Her perseverance paid off, and she had enough to travel within a year, thanks to contributions from friends and employers.

Missionary Work in China

Aylward’s arrival in China in 1932 marked the beginning of her missionary work. She joined missionary Jeannie Lawson in Yangcheng, where they ran The Inn of Eight Happinesses. This place served as a waystation for mule caravans and a place to share the gospel. Aylward quickly immersed herself in the language and culture, adopting local dress and customs.

Her missionary work took a dramatic turn when she began taking in unwanted and orphaned children. It started with a beggar woman offering her daughter for sale. Aylward, moved by compassion, adopted the child, naming her Mei-en, or “Ninepence.” This act of kindness led to the inn becoming an orphanage, prompting the provincial governor to start a school.

The outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937 thrust Aylward into a new role. She became a Chinese citizen to better identify with those she served. As a result she found herself behind enemy lines, reporting information to the Chinese authorities. Her efforts earned her the name ‘Ai-weh-deh,’ meaning ‘Virtuous One.’

Rescue of Orphans

Perhaps the most harrowing chapter of Aylward’s life was rescuing over a hundred orphans during the war. With the Japanese closing in, Aylward led the children on a perilous 12-day journey across mountains to safety.

Despite running out of food and facing numerous dangers, they received help along the way, including from a Buddhist priest and Chinese soldiers. When they reached the Yellow River with no boats in sight, Aylward and the children prayed, and miraculously, a Chinese officer arranged their crossing.

Influence and Legacy

Aylward’s influence extended far beyond her lifetime. After being forced to leave China when the Communists gained power in 1949, she established the Gladys Aylward Orphanage in Taiwan. Resulting in continued work with abandoned children. Her story gained widespread attention with the publication of Alan Burgess’ biography “The Small Woman” in 1957. As well as the subsequent film “The Inn of the Sixth Happiness,” which, despite its romanticized portrayal, helped raise funds for her cause.

Aylward’s legacy is one of faith and tenacity. She was an unlikely candidate for missionary work, but her unwavering faith and determination enabled her to overcome insurmountable obstacles. Her life challenges the complacent and encourages the discouraged, showing that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things through faith.

Gladys Aylward’s life was a remarkable journey of faith and service. From her early days in London to her final years in Taiwan, she demonstrated a profound commitment to spreading God’s love, regardless of borders or barriers. Her story continues to inspire those who hear it, and it is a true testament to the power of faith and the impact one person can have on the world.