On inherited tulips and a legacy of faith

On inherited tulips and a legacy of faith.
“There is no pit so deep that God’s love is not deeper still” (Corrie ten Boom, The Hiding Place).

Today is Corrie ten Boom’s birthday and death day (1892-1983), and I’m remembering the example by which she lived, of faith, peace, and humility.

Corrie’s writings on life have modeled many lessons for me over the years, including the courage her family demonstrated in helping hide Jewish people, even amidst their subsequent suffering during WWII in the Netherlands, and her decision to forgive those who hurt her. My family was fortunate to know Corrie in Los Angeles in the later years of her life and they were moved by her kindness and ability to advocate for forgiveness and peace.

In the spring, we bought a home. After many months of temporarily living with family, we found a home and moved in over Spring Break. We inherited a few gardens in the front and back; the soil appeared prime and prepared, but it was uncertain what had previously been planted. Today I noticed a variety of bright tulips, which had been tightly closed against the weekend snow, but now unfurled in splendid color.

For as long as I can recall, tulips have been my favorite flower, and it feels like such an unexpected joy to see tulips in our gardens! The previous owner planted these bulbs, surely anticipating the bright blooms every April. Just as we’re reaping the joy of these flowers because of someone else’s work, so my life has been encouraged by Corrie and her legacy.

Some people plant seeds in fertile soil, others water and nurture the soil, and some find reward with the bounty of harvest. May we always hold high regard for those forerunners of faith and joy.

Today in particular, I’m absorbing the timely lesson in Corrie’s reminder,

“There are no ‘what ifs’ in God’s world. And no places that are safer than other places. The center of His will is our only safety. Let’s pray we may always know it!”