IF
Amy Carmichael
If is a little book of short thoughts about the meaning of Calvary Love – that selfless and sacrificial love that led Jesus to walk willingly to the Cross. Written in 1938 by an Irish missionary to South India named Amy Carmichael, this short book is a practical reflection of our thoughts, questions, attitudes and behavior in everyday life.
This book of less than 30 pages was written by Amy Carmichael one night when a friend came to her for help. She pondered what to do in response, thought to herself “do I know anything of Calvary love”, and began writing her thoughts in a notebook; thoughts she had no intention of publishing, because it was too personal.
But it is precisely this personal, raw and vulnerable nature of her writing that makes If such a treasured book given to us by missionaries of the previous generation.
If I can write an unkind letter, speak an unkind word, think an unkind thought without grief and shame… then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If by Amy Carmichael
These 65 inspired musings can be read as short poems altogether or one at a time with reflection – and maybe with some writing of your own. If by Amy Carmichael contains writing that makes us think about how we have behaved in certain situations and opens the door to reflection and repentance.
Amy Carmichael wrote this book in Dohnavur in South India where she served as a Protestant missionary from 1895 to 1951, and built an orphanage where she cared for hundreds of young girls who had been rescued from sexual exploitation.
If I belittle those whom I am called to serve, talk of their weak points in contrast perhaps with what I think of as my strong points… then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If by Amy Carmichael
PRAYER
Dear Jesus, the love you had on the Cross is hard to understand, let alone practice. But following you means showing people the same love you show all of us. Help us spend time in the Gospels understanding your love and practicing your love in our day to day relationships in our homes, offices, classrooms and anywhere else we may go. Through the witness of our lives, help us show people what a relationship with you is all about. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
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DID YOU KNOW?
The Dohnavur Fellowship, the orphanage that Amy Carmichael established in South India to minister to girls and young women, still operates today. For 56 years, Amy Carmichael served in South India until her death.