May 27, 2026
— Wikipedia · Source: Wikipedia, "Mary Ann Aldersey"; see also The Spirit of Missions, Sept. 1847 ("an English lady not connected with any society")
Philippians 3:7-8 But whatever I considered gain to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. Moreover, I consider everything loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have lost all things; I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.
Mary Ann Aldersey came from a wealthy London family, yet, attached to no missionary society, she went at her own expense to Southeast Asia and then to Ningbo to open schools; her life resonates deeply with the Apostle Paul's account of his own. In the eyes of the world, leaving a comfortable home for a distant land may seem senseless; but on the scales of the Kingdom of Heaven, all things treasured by the world may be counted "loss" and "dung." True wisdom lies in recognizing what truly constitutes an eternal and indestructible crown. When we completely surrender our lives and exhaust ourselves for the Lord, what may seem like a tremendous sacrifice is in fact the greatest gain. This is not asceticism, but a willing, joyful, and romantic journey undertaken after recognizing the supreme treasure of Christ.
Our beloved Lord Jesus, praise You as the supreme treasure! Grant me heavenly vision, to disregard worldly comforts and perishable wealth, and to willingly forsake all things "of loss" in Your calling. Lord, remove from my heart the fear of the unknown, and ignite in me the fervor to serve You. May my life not be wasted in worldly pursuits, but like the missionary Mary Ann Aldersey, to willingly "expend my resources" for Your Kingdom and for the salvation of lost souls. Use my life, that I may also live out the most sincere spiritual romance, exhausting myself for the Lord. Amen!