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.

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.

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.’

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.

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.

The post Gladys Aylward: A Life Devoted to Spreading God’s Love Across Borders first appeared on Pray For Indonesia.

“By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.” (1 John 3:16)

As we reflect on the words of the apostle John, we are confronted with the ultimate expression of love – the sacrificial act of Jesus laying down his life for us. John’s words echo Jesus’ own words:

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)

If ever we question Jesus’ love for us, we can look to the cross.

In the midst of a world that often confuses and distorts the meaning of love, the apostle John provides us with a clear and unwavering definition. “By this we know love,” he declares, “that he laid down his life for us.” 

When we gaze upon the cross, we see the ultimate demonstration of love. The Son of God, the eternal Word, the King of kings, willingly laid down his life to redeem us. He freed us from the bondage of sin and death. He took upon himself the punishment we deserved, enduring the wrath of God so that we may be forgiven and reconciled to the Father. This is the love that defines us, the love that transforms us, and the love that compels us to respond in kind.

While we are all too familiar with love that is dependent on our performance or love that is only applied to a certain degree, the cross shows us what true, unconditional love is. Jesus held nothing back and required nothing from us in order to receive His love. As Ephesians 2:8-9 says:

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

But the message of 1 John 3:16 does not stop there. John goes on to say, “And we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.” In other words, the love that Christ has shown us is not merely to be admired but to be imitated. We are called to follow in the footsteps of our Savior, to lay down our own lives for the sake of others.

This is a challenging and often uncomfortable call, for it requires us to die to ourselves, to put the needs of others before our own. It means sacrificing our time, our resources, our comfort, and even our very lives, if necessary, to serve and love those around us. It is a call to a radical and selfless love, a love that mirrors the love of Christ.

As we embrace this call to lay down our lives for others, we discover that our love becomes a powerful witness to the world. For it is through our love for one another, and even for our enemies, that the world will know that we are disciples of Christ (John 13:35). Our love becomes the tangible expression of our new selves, hidden in Christ.

When we love as Christ loved, when we are willing to sacrifice ourselves for the sake of others, we open the door for the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of those around us. Our love becomes a means by which others may come to know the love of God.

If we think back on our own lives, certain people come to mind when thinking of those whom God used to display the sacrificial love of Christ. Their lives were different, and we noticed. Their eyes and hearts for people were different, and we noticed. May that spur us on to be Jesus’ hands and feet in the places He has us. May the daily reminder of the gospel compel us to love and live in a sacrificial way in hopes that people will see the love of Christ on display. 

“God, help us to truly know the depth of your love, as demonstrated through the sacrifice of your Son. May we be empowered by your Spirit to follow in the footsteps of Christ, laying down our lives for the sake of others. Use our love as a powerful witness to the world that many may come to know and follow You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

The post The Ultimate Act Of Love: How Christ Laid Down His Life As A Model For Us (1 John 3:16) first appeared on Pray For Indonesia.

Love is the cornerstone of discipleship, authentic Christian living and all spiritual growth. The essence of love, particularly agape love, is not merely a sentiment but a transformative force that defines the very nature of discipleship. In the teachings of Jesus and the writings of the apostles, love emerges as the central trait by which true disciples are recognized. This love, characterized by selflessness, forgiveness, and compassion, mirrors the sacrificial love demonstrated by Christ himself. 

Discipleship, therefore, is intricately intertwined with the practice of love – a love that transcends personal boundaries and extends to all. It reflects the heart of God and bearing witness to the transformative power of the gospel. Love within discipleship is not just an emotion but a deliberate choice to imitate Christ’s love for others. As it embodies the core essence of what it means to follow Him faithfully.

In John 13:35, Jesus uttered a statement that encapsulates the essence of true discipleship:

“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

This verse serves as a guiding light for understanding the core principle of discipleship in Christianity – love. Jesus, in these simple yet powerful words, establishes love as the defining characteristic by which His followers are identified. By commanding us to love one another, Jesus sets a high standard for His disciples. He calls them to embody his love in all their interactions. John 13:35 thus becomes a foundational scripture that illuminates the path to true discipleship – a path marked by love, unity, and a reflection of Christ’s own love for humanity.

Being a disciple in the Christian faith means following Jesus. As well as being transformed by his teachings, and actively participating in his mission. According to the Bible, a disciple is not just a follower but someone who wholeheartedly embraces the teachings of Jesus. As a result it allows them to shape their beliefs, values, and actions. In Matthew 4:19, Jesus calls His disciples to “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men”.

A disciple is called to prioritize Jesus above all else. We are called to obey His teachings, bear spiritual fruit, demonstrate love towards others, and engage in making more disciples.  We must embody a life dedicated to living out the principles and values taught by Christ for the glory of God.

“And Jesus came and said to them, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18–20)

True disciples exhibit distinct characteristics and qualities that set them apart in their commitment to following Jesus. They demonstrate unwavering faith and trust in God, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties, as seen in Hebrews 11:6.

“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”

True disciples also display a deep love for God and others, as emphasized in Matthew 22:37-39,

“And he said to him, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself”.

showing compassion, kindness, and selflessness in their interactions. They prioritize prayer and seek guidance from the Holy Spirit to discern God’s will and direction for their lives.

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (John 16:13)

Additionally, true disciples are humble, teachable, and willing to serve others with humility and grace. As a result, we mirror the servant leadership modeled by Jesus.

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. (Mark 10:45)

Jesus’ commandment goes beyond the general instruction to love others. It sets a higher standard based on the sacrificial and unconditional love that he exemplified throughout his ministry. As well as, culminating in his ultimate sacrifice on the cross. In giving this new commandment, Jesus reveals the transformative power of love in relationships.

Furthermore, Jesus connects this commandment of love directly to the identification of his followers. He explains that by demonstrating genuine love for one another, they will be recognized as His disciples. Discipleship rooted in love goes beyond mere adherence to rules or rituals; it embodies a sacrificial love that mirrors Christ’s own love for humanity.

Loving one another serves as a powerful testimony to non-believers as well. When Christians genuinely love one another, they demonstrate the reality of their faith and their relationship with God. This visible manifestation of love not only reflects the character of Christ but also draws others to inquire about the source of such unconditional love.

Through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion within the Christian community, believers exemplify the love that transcends human understanding. With the goal to point others towards the transformative power of God’s love.

Disciples can demonstrate love in their daily lives in very practical ways. One way is by showing kindness and compassion to those in need, as instructed in Matthew 25:35-36.

“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.”

Where Jesus emphasizes caring for the hungry, thirsty, sick, and imprisoned. Disciples can also practice forgiveness and reconciliation, following the example of Christ who forgave unconditionally.

“bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” (Colossians 3:13)

Additionally, disciples can exhibit patience, gentleness, and humility in their interactions with others, reflecting the fruits of the Spirit outlined in Galatians 5:22-23.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”

Serving one another selflessly, as seen in Mark 10:45 where Jesus modeled servant leadership, is another practical way to demonstrate love. By actively listening, encouraging, and praying for one another, disciples embody the love of Christ in their daily actions.

Living out this commandment of love presents both challenges and rewards for believers. The challenges include overcoming personal biases, prejudices, and selfish tendencies to genuinely love others. Additionally, loving one’s enemies and those who may oppose or mistreat them can be particularly challenging but is a core aspect of Christian love.

“But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.” (Luke 6:35)

Despite these challenges, the rewards of living in love are profound. By embodying Christ-like love, believers experience spiritual growth. As well as deeper intimacy with God, and a sense of fulfillment in their purpose as disciples. The act of loving others not only transforms the lives of those being loved but also brings unity within the Christian community. Ultimately, the greatest reward lies in fulfilling Jesus’ command and receiving his eternal commendation.

Practicing this kind of love leads to spiritual growth and transformation in the lives of believers. When we actively engage in loving others with genuine compassion, forgiveness, and selflessness, we align ourselves with the heart of God and His teachings. This intentional practice of love not only reflects the character of Christ but also deepens one’s relationship with God and others.

Through acts of kindness believers experience a transformation of their own hearts and perspectives. As a result, leading to increased empathy, humility, and a greater capacity to love unconditionally. As believers continue to cultivate a lifestyle of love, they grow in spiritual maturity. They develop a deeper understanding of God’s love for them, and become more Christ-like in their character. The process of practicing love not only benefits those who receive it but also fosters personal growth. It also strengthens faith and ultimately leads to a more profound connection with God. Finally, we fulfill one of the greatest commandments to love God and one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:37-39).

Love also serves as the foundation for unity and harmony in Christian community.

“with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

Ephesians 4:2-3 highlights the importance of being marked by love and unity. It emphasizes the significance of maintaining peace and showing patience and tolerance towards one another. This unity is not merely a superficial agreement but a deep bond that reflects the love of Christ and draws believers closer to God.

Behold, how good and pleasant it is
when brothers dwell in unity!
It is like the precious oil on the head,
running down on the beard,
on the beard of Aaron,
running down on the collar of his robes!
It is like the dew of Hermon,
which falls on the mountains of Zion!
For there the Lord has commanded the blessing,
life forevermore.

Psalm 133 beautifully illustrates how good and pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity, likening it to the anointing of Aaron with precious oil. This unity is not only pleasing but also carries God’s blessing, leading to life everlasting. By cultivating a culture of love and unity, believers not only strengthen their relationships with one another but also deepen their connection with God.

Common barriers to loving one another include pride, selfishness, and unforgiveness. Pride can hinder genuine love by promoting a sense of superiority or self-centeredness that prevents us from empathizing with others or serving them humbly.

“Pride goes before destruction,
and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Prov. 16:18)

Proverbs 16:18 warns that pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.

Selfishness, as seen in Philippians 2:3-4,

“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others”

can lead to a lack of consideration for others’ needs and desires, hindering the ability to love sacrificially and selflessly.

Un-forgiveness, as addressed in Ephesians 4:31-32,

“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

can breed bitterness and resentment that block the flow of love and reconciliation in relationships. By acknowledging and addressing these barriers through humility, selflessness, and forgiveness, believers can overcome obstacles to loving one another as Christ has loved them, fostering unity and harmony within the Christian community.

To overcome the obstacles of pride, selfishness, and unforgiveness in cultivating a heart of love, believers can implement several biblical strategies. Firstly, practicing humility allows individuals to set aside pride and prioritize the needs of others above their own. By acknowledging one’s limitations and valuing others’ perspectives, humility paves the way for genuine love to flourish.

Secondly, embracing selflessness, exemplified by Christ’s sacrificial love (John 15:13),

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends”

enables believers to act with generosity and compassion towards others, putting their interests aside for the well-being of those around them.

Thirdly, fostering a spirit of forgiveness, as instructed in Colossians 3:13,

“bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”

involves releasing grudges and extending grace to those who have wronged us, mirroring God’s forgiveness towards us. By actively practicing humility, selflessness, and forgiveness in daily interactions, believers can overcome barriers to love and cultivate a heart that reflects the transformative power of God’s love.

Christ himself emphasizes that love for one another is the defining mark of true discipleship. His command underscores the transformative power of selfless love in relationships within the Christian community. The significance of this command lies in its departure from mere doctrinal adherence to a focus on practical love and service.

By loving one another as Christ loved, disciples reflect the character of God. The unity and authenticity of discipleship are revealed through genuine acts of love, which serve as a powerful testimony to the world of the disciples’ identity as followers of Christ. Ultimately, John 13:35 encapsulates the core essence of discipleship – a life marked by selfless love, compassion, and service towards others, mirroring the love that Christ has shown to all.

As you ponder the significance of love as the hallmark of true discipleship, take a moment to reflect on your own practice of love and its role in your discipleship journey. Consider how your interactions with others, both within the Christian community and beyond, reflect the love that Christ has called us to embody. Evaluate whether your words, actions, and attitudes align with the selfless and sacrificial love exemplified by Jesus. Take time to examine areas where pride, selfishness, or un-forgiveness may hinder your ability to love others unconditionally. By introspectively assessing your practice of love, you can deepen your understanding of discipleship and cultivate a heart that mirrors God’s love. 

The post Loving One Another: The Sign Of True Discipleship According To John 13:35 first appeared on Pray For Indonesia.