Chaplain’s Chat

We read of one of the most remarkable stories of compassion and kindness when we reflect on the life and times of Corrie ten Boom. Corrie and her family lived in the Netherlands when the Nazis occupied their country in World War 2. As Corrie and her family soon realised, the Nazis began to arrest the Jewish people and sent many to concentration camps. The ten Boom family decided to help and assist with hiding Jewish families in their home to help them try to escape the Nazis. Risking her life in the process, she was arrested and sent to a concentration camp. Her sister died in the camp, and remarkably, Corrie survived. After the war, she actually met one of the prison guards who was so brutal to many, including her sister.

With her Christian faith, Corrie forgave the guard, showing immense kindness and compassion. The guard was reduced to tears. Corrie was modelling the love that God has shown us in Jesus. As Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” When we follow Jesus, we too are called to show kindness and compassion. It is the appropriate response to what God has done for us. What an immense way to build and deepen relationships as we show this kindness and compassion to others.

Rev Anthony Benn
Chaplain