Kaboom! It was the Ten Boom’s first wartime sound in Holland. At wartime we often think of those who label the enemy as the most evil people in all of history, regardless of whether there were worse crimes committed against others in past times or at present. Christ does not judge people based on their actions. He forgives them no matter what. It is important that we follow the example of Christ and forgive those who have wronged us. If we are unable to forgive or forget a past wrong, the relationship between us and God will suffer.
The Hiding Place’s story was heavily influenced by forgiveness. The Hiding Place first showed forgiveness when Casper Ten Boom’s (father) hired Otto the German watchmaker. Otto, although a fine watchmaker and a man of faith, refused to take part in the Ten Boom’s Bible readings. When we asked his reason, he responded that although he could not understand Dutch, that he was aware that Father was reading the Old Testament. This, according to him, was the Jews’ ‘Book of Lies. He said, ‘He was misled.’ “By seeing us and how much we love the book, and are honest people, he’ll realize his mistake.” (74)
In my own history, I remember being told that Christianity is false. Unable to understand the Word of God, a teenager fell prey to other religions. It was sadly probably the worst of all: satanism. I used to go to an Evangelical congregation where we learned how to become Evangelists to spread the Word of God. But when I told him how Christ died to save us and how all those who believe will live forever, he said his own thoughts about Christianity. To him, it was a simple religion of the desert and satan would show mercy to anyone following his way, which is the world’s ways. I was unable to save him, and I gave up trying. Jude 1 :4 “4 For some people have crept unnoticed into this condemnation who were long designated as ungodly, sensual people, who deny Jesus Christ, our only Lord and Master, because they pervert God’s grace to sensuality.”
The Hiding Place has another example of forgiveness. The police chief called Corrie ten Boom to discuss a matter involving a NSBer who was leaking German intelligence. “‘Then, let us pray that God will reach his heart so that he won’t betray our countrymen. Let’s do that together.'” “We prayed for this Dutchman to come to understand his value in God’s eyes and the worth of all other humans on earth.”
In this case, honestly I don’t even know what my reaction would be in a similar situation. After reading the book, I was able to predict what Corrie would do. She was a person who was always willing to help others, loved her family and her country and loved God. Violence might have worked and killing the traitor was the only way to end the situation. God had a better plan for Corrie’s and Betsie’s lives. This involved no bloodshed and no violence. Corrie, in my opinion, did exactly what no one else could have done. She forgave the enemy and allowed God’s justice to be served on the traitor. Romans 12 : 18-21 “18 If you can, and as far as your abilities allow, try to live in peace with everyone. Romans 12:18-21 “18 If possible, live peaceably with all, as far as it depends on you.
The last forgiveness I found was at the end of this book, after the war was over and Corrie had been allowed to leave. Betsie, however, had passed away from disease just days before the group was allowed to leave. Corrie was reflecting on the wrongs that had been done to her, to her family and the other countries during the war when the Allies recaptured Holland. They were often seen in the street with shaved-heads and furtive looks. Former collaborators now lived in poor conditions, were evicted from their apartments and homes, could not find employment, and were hooted on the street.
While I’m glad the allies were victorious, I still feel sorry about those who had their war lost ridiculed. Christ asks us to forgive more than once, even though Germans and Japanese tried to take over the world by joining forces with Italians and killing so many. He actually calls for us to be able to forgive someone four-hundred ninety or more times. Matthew 18-21-22 “21 Peter then asked him: “Lord. How many times will I have to forgive my brother for his sins? How many times can you forgive him?
The Hiding Place is Corrie’s autobiography. It reveals a lot about the people who do not yet accept Christ Jesus. I believe that even though more people are now believers, it’s still important to reach the whole world. Lieutenant Rahms, in The Hiding Place, asked Corrie about Christ Jesus. Corrie explained to him that Christ died on the cross and paid for all our sins. Rahms became a convert. Even people in my neighborhood have never enjoyed the luxury of attending a high-quality school, living comfortably in their own home, or sleeping warmly at night. Christ Jesus alone is the most valuable treasure in anyone’s life. So, I strongly encourage more evangelism. Spreading God’s Word could save many more lives.
