Destinations

On the 27th of May Bolivia celebrates Mother’s Day. This day is brought special significance by a battle fought in 1812, where the women of Bolivia took up arms to defend their freedom. This women’s force was led by Bolivian heroin of Independence, Juana Azurduy de Padilla, the wife of an army general. History says that there were not enough men left to fight the battle so the women took up arms against the Spanish oppressors.
Each Mother’s Day this story is told in school ceremonies all over the country, to remember their bravery and celebrate their courage. In this way the mother’s of Bolivia are honoured as an extension of this force of women soldiers.
Against this backdrop Mother’s Day was commemorated at Casa Segura. For many of our children whose mother’s have died or have abandoned them, it was a day that brought difficult memories to the surface, overflowing with tears. I couldn’t help but think as I cried with them that God was collecting each tear as His own precious jewels as His Spirit works within them to heal their hurts and transform their hearts. Day by day this transformation takes place and it is my privilege see it revealed in their smiles.
You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book. Psalm 56:8 (NLT)
God doesn’t promise us a life without tears, but He does promise that our mourning will be turned into joy as we look to Him.
You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever! Psalm 30:11-12 (NLT)