Move With Compassion: A 7-Day Advent DevotionalSample

See: Magaly’s story

“I used to cry myself to sleep because my legs were losing mobility. I felt sad because I could not run and play like before.”

It was a mystery. Magaly, an 8-year-old girl full of energy who once raced across the playground, was suddenly hardly walking, taking small shuffling steps as her knees went numb from intense pain. When she arrived at the Compassion Center for a mid-year medical check-up, staff were shocked to see her barely able to walk, even with her mother’s help.

Magaly’s parents had a combined monthly income that didn’t surpass $200 USD, so when Magaly was rushed to a public hospital, they were worried that they would not be able to afford the treatment their daughter would need. They were thankful to learn that Compassion’s medical fund could help.

Although she was now receiving dedicated care at the hospital, Magaly’s case was not straightforward. Doctors struggled to diagnose her accurately, which led to her staying in the hospital for five months.

Despite the uncertainty of her situation, Magaly was not alone. Compassion staff would make the two-hour journey each week to visit her and deliver items that would help her stay comfortable. Relatives who took turns taking care of Magaly in the hospital had their transportation costs covered by the center as well.

Most importantly, Magaly had the care and encouragement of her church.

“In our church, we were fasting and praying for Magaly’s health,” said Ambary, the center director.

After a long period of medical surveillance at the hospital, Magaly finally had an operation on her cervical spine, which doctors said would help her recover mobility in her legs. When the surgery was over, Magaly could not have been happier—she could finally go home!

Following months of therapy, leg exercises, and prayer, Magaly no longer needed a wheelchair to get around and was able to walk on her own, without fear or discomfort. Today, she runs and plays with her little sister like nothing ever happened.

“My daughter is a miracle, and we praise the Lord for her healing,” said Gladys, Magaly’s mother.

Through the prayers and support of many, Magaly and her family have experienced the God of all comfort and His miraculous power.

Today, Magaly's ability to walk—and her smile—has been restored.

Feel: Jesus’ heart

When Jesus encountered those who were injured and unwell, He felt their pain and was motivated to relieve it.

Move: Your action

When Magaly found herself in the frightening situation of being bedridden in a hospital for five months straight, her relatives and Compassion staff comforted her through their prayers (and fasting), presence (keeping her company), and provision (bringing meals, games, and essentials).

Move with compassion toward those going through difficulty. Who can you add to your prayer list? Who can you cheer up with a visit or a home-cooked meal? How can you extend comfort to someone who needs it today?