Corrie ten Boom
A Woman of Peace, Compassion and Mercy
Posted by: CDFWarrington on Monday, March 13, 2023 at 10:13PM
Corrie ten Boom was a remarkable woman who lived a life of service and faith. Born in the Netherlands in 1892, she grew up in a family that believed in helping others and living according to their Christian beliefs.
During World War II, Corrie and her family became involved in the Dutch resistance, helping to hide Jews and other refugees from the Nazis. Their efforts were eventually discovered, and Corrie and her family were arrested and sent to concentration camps. Corrie survived the camps and went on to dedicate her life to sharing her story of faith, hope, and forgiveness with others.
One of the most potent aspects of Corrie's story is her unwavering faith amid unimaginable suffering. Even when faced with the horrors of the concentration camps, she held fast to her belief in God's love and providence. This faith sustained her through the darkest moments of her life and gave her the strength to forgive those who had wronged her. She is quoted as saying: "If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. If you look at God you'll be at rest."
Corrie's commitment to forgiveness is another crucial part of her legacy. After the war, she traveled the world, speaking about her experiences and encouraging others to forgive their enemies. She famously wrote, "Forgiveness is an act of the will, and the will can function regardless of the temperature of the heart." Corrie's own journey toward forgiveness was a long and difficult one. Still, she believed it was essential for her own healing and for the good of others.
In addition to her work on forgiveness, Corrie was a tireless advocate for peace and justice. She believed that every person was created in the image of God and that all people deserved to be treated with dignity and respect. Throughout her life, she worked to promote these values in her own community and beyond.
Today, Corrie's legacy continues to inspire people around the world. Her story is a testament to the power of faith, forgiveness, and love in the face of even the most difficult circumstances. As we remember her life and vocation, may we be inspired to follow in her footsteps and work for a world that is more just, peaceful, and compassionate.