Joy runs deeper than despair

Joy runs deeper than despair

Corrie ten Boom was a remarkable woman who lived through some of the darkest times in human history. As a Dutch Christian who helped hide Jews during the Holocaust, she experienced firsthand the horrors of war and the depths of human depravity. Despite facing unimaginable suffering and loss, Corrie held onto her faith and belief in the power of joy.

In her book, "The Hiding Place," Corrie recounts the harrowing experiences she and her family endured during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. They risked their lives to shelter Jews and members of the Dutch resistance in their home, ultimately leading to their arrest and imprisonment in a concentration camp. Throughout her time in captivity, Corrie witnessed unspeakable atrocities and faced constant fear and uncertainty. Yet, even in the midst of such despair, she found moments of joy and hope.

One of the most powerful examples of this is when Corrie and her sister Betsie held secret Bible studies in their barracks, sharing the message of God's love and forgiveness with their fellow prisoners. Despite the harsh conditions and constant threat of death, these gatherings brought a sense of peace and comfort to all who attended. Through their faith and resilience, Corrie and Betsie were able to find joy in the midst of their suffering.

Corrie's story is a testament to the idea that joy runs deeper than despair. Even in the darkest of times, she was able to find moments of light and hope that sustained her through the most difficult trials. Her unwavering faith in God and belief in the power of love and forgiveness allowed her to overcome the horrors of the Holocaust and emerge as a beacon of hope and inspiration to millions around the world.