Faith-Filled Family Becomes Christian Resistance
Corrie ten Boom, born on April 15, 1892, in Haarlem, Netherlands, was a beacon of light during one of history's darkest times. Raised in a devout Christian family, Corrie's upbringing was steeped in faith and hospitality. Her father, Casper, was a watchmaker, and their home, the Beje, was known for its open doors to those in need. When the Nazis invaded the Netherlands in May 1940, the Ten Boom family faced a new challenge. As restrictions tightened and Jewish lives were threatened, Corrie and her family became an integral part of the resistance, hiding Jewish refugees in a secret room in their home.
God's Faithfulness in Concentration Camps
In February 1944, the family was betrayed, leading to their arrest. Yet, despite the harrowing imprisonment in places like Ravensbrück concentration camp, Corrie's faith remained unshaken. She and her sister Betsie shared God's love with fellow prisoners, holding secret prayer meetings and Bible readings. Betsie, who had a vision of a post-war refuge for those who suffered, died in the camp in December 1944. Corrie was released shortly after due to a clerical error, a week before women her age were executed.
Ministry of Forgiveness After War
Corrie's journey didn't end there. After the war, she dedicated her life to helping others heal from the horrors they endured. As she traveled the world sharing her story, she emphasized forgiveness, even encountering a former Nazi guard and forgiving him. Corrie's words, "Forgiveness is an act of the will, and the will can function regardless of the temperature of the heart," reflect her deep faith and the power of Jesus' love. Corrie ten Boom's life is a testament to God's faithfulness, even in the darkest moments.
