Inspiration from the Past

In 1974, I was a freshman in college, just trying to figure out life as a 19 year old. In another part of the country, a sage woman gave advice I missed. I could have used a mentor like Corey Ten Boom back then.

Corey Ten Boom (1892-1983).

If you don’t know the name, I hope you give this video a try and listen to her story. Corey’s dad, a watchmaker, hid Jewish people during the war. Finally arrested by the Nazi’s, Corey and her family lived and prayed in a concentration camp where her sister, Betsy, died.

Corey smuggled a small Bible and held Bible study. Throughout her time there, she found many things for which to be thankful. She was even grateful for lice and fleas which kept the Nazi guards away. During the most horrific days, she became closer to God.

In the past week, I’ve watched this video twice, learning different things both times. The movie, The Hiding Place tells Corey’s story. Her strong faith and abundant energy allowed her to continue working long after the taping of this video. I’ve no doubt Corey was “promoted ahead of us”. In the sweet bye and bye, we’ll meet on that beautiful shore.

I was a little suspicious of the video because it was a product of the 700 Club. However, when Corey speaks her truths, she commands your complete attention. Her message is timeless and I hope it brings you comfort at whatever stage in life you find yourself. This woman found miracles throughout horrendous experiences in a concentration camp. Her faith became stronger because of and in spite of her struggles.

Enjoy.