October 24, 2011

compared

Was reading this book last night.

Anyway, I was struck by how very dark and hopeless it seemed. Now, yes, I know that the Holocaust isn't a happy subject. I know it's one of the darkest times (if not the) of the 1900's. But it wasn't the subject matter.

I was so very sad for Elie, and it wasn't because of the horrors that were forced upon him. Those were awful. It was because of the way that he felt God had abandoned him. He was hopeless, even that God would ever even exist for him again. I'm curious, but not excited to see how the story ends.

It got me thinking about one of my very favorite books, which also happens to be about the Holocaust.



Amazingly, a sad story as well. Death, pain, destruction. But, also, so much hope. In fact, I have read this one several times and each time I'm reminded how hope-filled this story is. What an amazing difference it is to be a child of the King and to be loved by Him. The circumstances were equally as horrible, but how beautiful the story of hope and love and redemption. Jesus doesn't necessarily change our circumstances in life, but He does give us hope and love. Much more necessary than air, it seems at times. A hand to hold. Someone to take care of us. A perfect, holy, omniscient God.

Have you read either? What did you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts, too.

1 comment:

leslie.kidd said...

I haven't read it, but I saw the movie again just a few weeks ago after a long time of not having seen it. It was so surreal to see the pain that people had to go through. I couldn't imagine having to go through all that! It made me very thankful for the life that God has given me. I was also amazed at the hope that Corrie and her family had. I hope that when I face extreme trials that I will be filled with hope as well!