A Working-Class Girl Called to China
Born in the bustling city of Edmonton, North London, in 1902, Gladys Aylward's journey to becoming a revered missionary in China was far from ordinary. Raised in a working-class family, Gladys found her faith ignited at the age of 18 during a revival meeting. Despite the initial rejection from the China Inland Mission due to her lack of formal education, Gladys's resolve remained unshaken. She felt a profound calling to share the Gospel with the millions in China who had never heard it.
In 1930, with her life savings in hand, Gladys embarked on a perilous journey across Siberia via the Trans-Siberian Railway, determined to reach the remote regions of China. Her journey was fraught with danger, yet she was sustained by her unwavering faith. As she later reflected, 'Here was I worrying about my journey, while God was helping me all the way.'
Upon arriving in Yangcheng, Shanxi Province, Gladys co-founded 'The Inn of the Eight Happinesses' with Jeannie Lawson. The inn served as a refuge for travelers, where Gladys shared Bible stories and the teachings of Jesus. After Jeannie's death, Gladys took on the full responsibility of running the mission. In 1936, her commitment was recognized as she became a Chinese citizen, known affectionately as 'Ai-weh-deh,' meaning 'Virtuous One.'
During the Japanese invasion of China in 1938, Gladys faced one of her most daunting challenges. She led over 100 orphans on a treacherous journey over the mountains to safety. Her courage and reliance on God's strength were evident as she declared, 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.'
Gladys's story is one of faith and perseverance, showing how God can use those who are willing. She once humbly remarked, 'I wasn't God's first choice... I don't know who it was... it must have been a man... a well-educated man. I don't know what happened. Perhaps he died. Perhaps he wasn't willing... and God looked down... and saw Gladys Aylward... and God said, 'Well, she's willing.''
Through her life, Gladys Aylward demonstrated that with God's guidance, even the most ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things for His glory.
