Gladys Alyward

Gladys Alyward (http://www.christianhistorytimeline.com/GLIMPSEF/Glimpses/glmps006.shtml)

At five feet, with dark brown hair and eyes, Gladys Aylward may not seem very superior or strong, but my dad always reminds me: great things come in small packages. Gladys Aylward hails as my role model and hero for her obedience and faith to God. She realized that works done here on earth affect not only those currently living, but also the souls in eternity as well. Plus, the fact she and I both stand at exactly five-feet makes her story relatable. What truly sparks my admiration comes from her determination, courage, and faith during her work in China. She brought the word of God and the peace of the Holy Spirit to the village of Yangcheng, and the surrounding area. Through, fear, pain, and trials, Gladys would not turn back from her work or her calling from God believing she belonged with the people of China. Her story teaches lessons in my life that incline me in striving to meet my goals, and follow in the way of Christ. Gladys did not let the terror of Communism exploding around overcome her. Instead, she prayed, “Here is my Bible. Here is all the money I have. Here is me. Find some way to use me God!”

With a broken heart, but an obdurate strength of character, Gladys saved for years in England for a ticket to China. She had suffered ridicule and rebuke even from fellow Christians during that time, but she did not let it discourage her. Several years before she had failed missionary training, but knew God wanted her work in China spreading His Word. Growing up in a middle class station, with parents trying to make ends meet, Gladys had no fame or fortune. Yet, her works throughout China made her a household name all over the world. Trekking into China took several months. She rode a train with Russian soldiers into Siberia, became a prisoner aboard a cargo ship, and walked many miles until a mule litter carried her into Yancheng. During her trip, God's hand of protection laid on Gladys as she placed herself in dangerous situations, and unfathomable hardships. In her life as a missionary, she served as a foot inspector, a maid, hotel owner, matron’s advisor and ambassador. In the end, she never stopped helping others, dying with a rejected and orphaned baby next to her bed. Gladys’ courage and endurance speak volumes about how to trust God in everything, even when the problems and discouragement of life seem to show no hope. Her message has become an imprint on my heart, and an encouragement in my life.

Many times, I dream of becoming someone great in life, but Gladys' story becomes a constant reminder that glory goes to God and not unto me. At other moments, the time ahead seems intimidating at my younger stage in life. I am only a sixteen year old who stands at five feet. Wonder and dread towers over my mind of what impact I could possibly make in the world and for God. Every time these thoughts float through my mind the image of Gladys pops in my head. She only stood five feet as well, and here I am today being encouraged by her story long after she left this world. Gladys Alyward has taught me life-altering lessons of humility, faith, and courage. Also I feel that God used this story of Gladys to teach me that He has a plan for my life, and to never give up when all seems lost. She fought for the truth and God. I strongly believe her life’s testimony makes her a hero both in life on earth and eternally.