The Hiding Place: a review
I opened my email to see one from the Rabbit Room, announcing their new play, The Hiding Place. Curious, I looked at the dates… and a sneaky grin crept onto my face. Aha. We would just so happen to be in Nashville that very weekend.
Of course I asked mom if there was any remotely possible way we could go. I barely wanted to hope, so I wouldn’t disappoint myself.
… But it all worked out. Isn’t God so cool like that?!
So last month, on our way down to Nashville for music camp, we saw The Hiding Place, adapted for the stage by A.S. Peterson. I was totally transported from my balcony seat right there into the story. The play was beautiful. I cried more than I care to say. It was an experience I won’t forget anytime soon.
And… I left the theatre knowing that I would have to read the book. ASAP.
Last Sunday after church I shut myself in my room, curled on my beanbag, and finally read it. As soon as I had reached the back cover, I closed the book, dropped it to the floor, and stared out my window for a while. My tea was long since forgotten, cold in the mug on my desk.
I felt a strange mixture of hollow and full.
What to even say?
I think I’ll have to read it again at some point, just to soak it all in. The story itself is incredible. I longed to feel Betsy ten Boom’s unwavering adoration for Christ, and I related with Corrie’s anger and frustration at times. I saw myself in the story.
I don’t really know how to explain the impact it had on me… it was quiet, and subtle, but definitely there. I was left with the empty feeling in my chest that longs to feel that deep connection with God. At the same time, I felt Jesus reminding me once again just how unconditionally loved I am.
If nothing else, this story reminded me that God alone is my Hiding Place. It is with him alone I am safe and fully known… and that is something to rest in.
If you haven’t read this book already, I’d highly recommend it. Brew some tea and curl up with a blanket – you’re in for a journey you won’t forget.
โThere is no pit so deep, that God’s love is not deeper still.โ
โ Corrie Ten Boom
Cover image from goodreads.com
That is so beautiful. What a wonderful way to describe it. The Hiding Place has been a favorite for a while, despite my tendency towards fiction/fantasy, but I haven’t re-read it in too long. I may have to now.
Yes! I tend to gravitate towards fiction, but this year I’ve been discovering how much I enjoy nonfiction and historical novels, as well. This one really is fantastic.
HELLO ABBY! I’m so glad I found your blog, I love it! <3 My name is Rosie, and I run a blog called Fiddling on the Farm (I play violin, hence the 'fiddling' :P) I just found your blog, and I've been looking around it, and we have quite a lot in common! I LOVE reading and writing, so I was very happy to see that that's what your whole blog is about! I had a few books that I was wondering if you've tried (by the way, I love, love, LOVE the Wingfeather Saga!) – The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, The Green Ember series by S.D Smith, and the Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall? I really enjoyed all these series… also, I noticed in your book recommendations page, that you liked the book Do Hard Things – have you ever heard of The Young Writers website before? If not, its a Christian website specifically geared towards young writers. I really enjoy it.
Well, sorry for the long comment! I hope to see you over on my blog sometime! ๐
Rosie @ Fiddling on the Farm (https://fiddlingonthefarm.wixsite.com/blog)
P.S Would you like to swap buttons? I already have yours on my blog…
Hi Rosie, thanks for your comment. I’m happy you’re so enthusiastic about my blog! Yours looks great as well! ๐
Yep, I’ve read all those series you mentioned, and enjoyed them all. And yes, I know what The Young Writer is- I was part of it for a short time:)
I have a page up for swapping buttons now, if you’d like to send me a message over there!
-Abby