A Chance to Die

1. Unwavering devotion: Amy Carmichael's lifelong commitment to serving God

"Let us work until we drop, but let us never lower the standard."

Early calling. Amy Carmichael's journey began in her youth when she felt a strong calling to serve God. This commitment shaped her entire life, leading her from Ireland to India, where she spent over 55 years as a missionary. Her devotion was characterized by:

• Sacrificial living: Giving up personal comforts and relationships
• Constant prayer and Bible study
• Unwavering faith in God's provision and guidance

Lifelong service. Despite facing numerous challenges, including ill health and cultural barriers, Amy remained steadfast in her mission. She continued to serve and lead the Dohnavur Fellowship even when bedridden in her later years, writing books and letters to inspire and guide others.

2. Breaking cultural barriers: Adapting to Indian customs for effective missionary work

"I wanted to have no possessions except what I could carry in a big handkerchief!"

Cultural immersion. Amy Carmichael recognized the importance of adapting to local customs to effectively reach the Indian people. She:

• Wore Indian clothing, including saris
• Learned Tamil and other local languages
• Adopted Indian names for herself and the children in her care

Challenging norms. Her approach often put her at odds with other missionaries and colonial authorities. Amy refused to conform to the typical British lifestyle in India, instead choosing to live simply and closely with the local people. This dedication to cultural adaptation allowed her to build trust and connect more deeply with those she sought to help.

3. Rescuing children: The foundation of Dohnavur Fellowship and its impact

"Children tie the mother's feet."

Saving temple children. Amy's work took a significant turn when she became aware of the practice of dedicating young girls to Hindu temples, where they faced exploitation. She began rescuing these children, which led to the establishment of the Dohnavur Fellowship. The organization grew to include:

• Nurseries for infants and young children
• Schools for education and vocational training
• Medical facilities to care for the sick and injured

Expanding mission. Over time, the Fellowship expanded to include boys as well, providing a safe haven for hundreds of children who might otherwise have faced abuse or neglect. Amy's work challenged societal norms and confronted deeply entrenched cultural practices, often at great personal risk.

4. Leadership through adversity: Overcoming personal struggles and external challenges

"If you have troubles, the pool washes them off. Worries are just kissed away."

Personal trials. Amy faced numerous challenges throughout her life, including:

• Chronic illness and pain
• Opposition from local authorities and some fellow missionaries
• Financial struggles to support the growing Fellowship

Resilient spirit. Despite these obstacles, Amy maintained a positive outlook and continued to lead the Dohnavur Fellowship. Her resilience inspired those around her and set an example of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Innovative solutions. Amy's leadership was characterized by creative problem-solving and a willingness to adapt. She developed unique approaches to child care, education, and spiritual formation that were tailored to the needs of the children and the cultural context of South India.

5. The power of prayer: Reliance on faith in difficult circumstances

"Prayer is the core of our day. Take prayer out, and the day would collapse, would be pithless, a straw blown in the wind."

Central practice. Prayer was the cornerstone of Amy's life and work. She believed in the power of prayer to:

• Provide guidance in decision-making
• Bring about miracles and healings
• Sustain the Fellowship through financial and material challenges

Teaching others. Amy instilled this reliance on prayer in the children and workers at Dohnavur. She established regular prayer meetings and encouraged everyone to develop a personal prayer life. This emphasis on spiritual connection helped create a strong sense of community and purpose within the Fellowship.

6. Building a spiritual family: Creating a unique community in Dohnavur

"We are a family, not an institution."

Family-like structure. Amy created a unique community at Dohnavur that functioned more like a large family than a traditional orphanage or mission. Key aspects included:

• Calling herself "Amma" (mother) to the children
• Encouraging close bonds between children and caregivers
• Emphasizing love and individual attention over rigid rules

Holistic approach. The Fellowship provided not just physical care but also:

• Education tailored to each child's abilities and interests
• Spiritual formation through daily devotions and Bible study
• Vocational training to prepare children for adult life

This family-like atmosphere created a sense of belonging and security for the rescued children, many of whom had experienced trauma and abandonment.

7. Legacy of love: Amy Carmichael's enduring influence on missionary work

"You will never regret it."

Lasting impact. Amy Carmichael's work and writings continue to inspire missionaries and Christians around the world. Her legacy includes:

• Over 30 books on faith, missionary work, and spiritual life
• The ongoing work of the Dohnavur Fellowship, which continues to care for children in need
• A model of culturally sensitive and compassionate missionary work

Inspiring future generations. Amy's dedication to serving the "least of these" has motivated countless others to pursue similar callings. Her emphasis on unconditional love, sacrificial service, and unwavering faith continues to shape Christian mission work and child welfare efforts globally.

Last updated: September 3, 2024