A Working-Class Beginning
Gladys Aylward was born in 1902 in Edmonton, North London, to a working-class family. She left school at 14 and worked as a housemaid, but her life changed dramatically at 18 when she embraced Christianity. Inspired by God, she felt a calling to become a missionary in China, a country she had never been to but felt deeply connected to in her heart.
Pursuing Her Calling
In her late twenties, Gladys applied to the China Inland Mission but was rejected due to her lack of formal education. Undeterred, she continued to pursue her calling. As she read the book of Nehemiah, she felt a deep resonance with his story. She wrote, "As if someone was in the room, a voice said clearly, 'Gladys Aylward, is Nehemiah's God your God?'" This question solidified her resolve.
The Inn of the Eighth Happiness
In 1930, with her savings, she embarked on a perilous journey across Siberia to reach Yangcheng, China. There, she joined missionary Jeannie Lawson and co-founded the Inn of the Eighth Happiness, sharing Bible stories with travelers. Gladys quickly learned the local dialect, earning the name "Ai-weh-deh," meaning "Virtuous One."
Her commitment to the people of China was evident when she was appointed as a "foot inspector" to fight against the practice of foot-binding. This role allowed her to travel and share her faith. Her bravery shone during a prison riot where, with God's protection, she intervened and advocated for reform.
Leading Orphans to Safety
In 1938, when Japan invaded China, Gladys led over 100 orphans to safety, crossing mountains and facing numerous challenges. They reached the Yellow River with no means to cross, but after days of waiting, a soldier arrived to help them. This miracle was a clear testament to God's provision.
Despite collapsing from illness shortly after, Gladys recovered and continued her work. She returned to England in 1949 but later settled in Taiwan, where she established an orphanage. Gladys Aylward passed away in 1970, leaving a legacy of faith, courage, and love for those she served.
