The Hiding Place is a famous account of a Christian (Corrie Ten Boom) and her family as they used their Dutch house in Haarlem to hide Jews from Nazi oppression during World War II. Eventually captured, many of them would be arrested and sent to prison (and, in a few cases, concentration camps). Determined to love both the oppressed and oppressor, the Ten Booms learned first-hand that Christian love is sacrifice, and demands all.
This story is amazing. The Ten Boom family is one of the best examples of Christian living I've ever read. Ten Boom's father taught his children to focus on God at all times, love all people, dwell on the good and never complain, and be absolutely selfless. I've seldom been so inspired, humbled, and convicted by a book. I was immediately challenged to live better. Perhaps most amazing of all, when persecuted, the Ten Booms felt sorry- for those persecuting them- and looked to love them through it all. Their sorrow wasn't condescending or judgmental- they were simply determined to show the love of Christ to all. They weren't perfect, but acknowledged their desire for revenge (when it arose) and relied on Jesus for the strength to overcome their weakness and love their enemy.
Most books about persecution focus on the experience of those wrongly suffering- the hardship, horror, and endurance of those who survived. Here, it almost takes a backseat to the Ten Boom's determination to love others no matter what. Prison- or any circumstance- for them was a part of God's plan, and to be used for His glory. Christians, read this book and be humbled. Non-Christians, read and learn what true love is like.
Rating: A+
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