Alena has written some thoughts since we will miss the June 3 discussion of The Hiding Place.
Iām so thankful that the book club chose to read Corrie Ten BoomāsĀ The Hiding Place. Iām only sorry that Iāll miss the discussion of this moving autobiography! I had never read this story before, and I found the deep faith expressed by Corrie Ten Boom and her family incredibly inspiring. Their trust in Godās goodness amidst the darkest of times, their love both for the vulnerable and for their persecutorsāand the ways in which the Lord worked through their sufferingāare a powerful testimony. Their family was steeped in the Scriptures, and this was a profound reminder of the strength imparted through Godās Word. I enjoyed hearing about their practice of morning Bible readingāpunctual down to the minute!āthat included the family, shop employees, and anyone who wanted to join in. I marvel at Betsieās eyes of faith that saw in every hardship an opportunity to share the Gospel with the hurting. I wonder at her thankfulness to God in all circumstances, and at His faithful response to her thanksgiving. Hebrews 12:1-3 speaks of how the example of the Old Testament saints can inspire us: āTherefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us runĀ with perseveranceĀ the race marked out for us,Ā fixing our eyes on Jesus,Ā the pioneerĀ and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross,Ā scorning its shame,Ā and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.Ā Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.ā The Ten Booms took heart in the Suffering Servant, and have joined that great cloud of witnesses who point us to Him.