LONELINESS

In Corrie Ten Boom’s book, “Clippings From My Notebook,” she writes of her loneliness in prison. She and her family were placed in concentration camps in World War Two Holland because of their work helping Jews. She tells of being in a dark cell alone for four months.

One day a beam of sunlight entered her cell. She stood so the beam fell on her face. As the beam moved, she moved, to enjoy it as long as possible. She says that moment she realized her loneliness as never before.

But, she says, God spoke to her through a remembered scripture: “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20 (KJV)

Loneliness sometimes may be almost unbearable. But join Corrie Ten Boom and countless others in the assurance of God’s never ending presence.

Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Joshua 1:9 (KJV)

A PIT SO DEEP

A few nights ago Marion and I watched the movie, “The Hiding Place.” This is the true story of Corrie Ten Boom, who lived in Holland with her family during the Second World War. As Jews were being deported to concentration camps, Corrie and her family hid a large number of them in their home.

The Ten Booms were found out and suffered much for their actions, even being deported themselves. Corrie and her sister, Betsie, ended up in the same women’s camp and, even through great hardships, became encouragers for others.

As the movie ends, the real Corrie Ten Boom quotes her sister’s words, “There is no pit so deep that the love of Jesus Christ is not deeper still.” This is the movie’s message: God does not forsake us in any situation. In fact, he has plans for us to share His love with others whatever the circumstance.

Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O Lord. Psalm 130:1. I waited patiently for the LORD, and He . . . heard my cry. Psalm 40:1 (KJV)

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