The book The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom had a deep impact on me. She was imprisoned during WW11 for sheltering Jews in her home. Trust in God is embedded in her courage, and gave her the strength to face dire consequences. Corrie did all she could to protect her sister Betsy, who was weaker, thinking little of her own needs. 

 

There were miracles couched within her story, like the fact that her bible was not confiscated when everything else was. The small bottle of vitamins somehow never ran out until another source was found. She was able to lead bible studies with the women in her barracks, even though such things were forbidden. The reason was that their beds were infested with lice and fleas, and the guards refused to search there. Which was why she gave thanks for the fleas. 

 

One of the aspects of her ministry surprised me. Before she was caught, she worked especially to protect disabled people. I had not realized that Hitler targeted them for his evil designs. This hits close to home. 

 

Sometimes when I am sitting with Ben in a group, and he does not quite fit in, I imagine that the people around me might have judgments. Perhaps they feel pity. But it does nothing to dim my affection for him. Benjamin has enriched my life in ways I could never have predicted, much less asked for. I believe that his innocence will give him a fast track to heaven. 

 

It hurts to know that there were authorities who wanted to rid their country of disabled persons. I am not as brave as Corrie ten Boom. But it is my calling to protect one special person.