Day 1: A Heart That Follows

Growing up in poverty in the Philippines, Mytch felt trapped — like a frog at the bottom of a well, staring up at a sky that felt impossibly distant. Her family’s home was barely standing, and some days all they had to eat was rice with salt and water. The neighborhood was filled with drugs and violence, and she often wondered if God saw her or had a purpose for her life.

Then, everything changed. At 8 years old, Mytch was enrolled in a Compassion-funded child development center, where she was sponsored by David, a math teacher from Illinois. His letters, though simple at first, became a lifeline, painting a picture of a world beyond her struggles. Through the Compassion center, she experienced love, mentorship and the truth of who she was in Christ. No longer feeling forgotten, she realized Jesus had been leading her all along.

With David’s encouragement and God’s provision, Mytch graduated with honors, became a CPA in the Philippines and later moved to New York City, where she now studies for the U.S. CPA exam. She was even able to buy her parents a home in a safe village. Today, she sponsors a little girl in Bolivia, passing on the same love that once changed her life.

God had a plan beyond what she could see.

In Matthew 25:31–32, Jesus gives us a glimpse of his return. No longer a humble servant, he will come as King, separating people like a shepherd separates sheep from goats — not by their appearance but by their hearts.

Sheep trust their shepherd, following wherever he leads. Goats, however, go their own way. Jesus doesn’t just call us to look like his followers — he calls us to truly follow him, walking in obedience and trust.

One day, Jesus will return in glory. But today, he calls you to walk with him — to serve others as if you were serving him.

Prayer

Jesus, thank you for being my Good Shepherd. Help me recognize your voice and follow you with trust and obedience. Teach me to love others as you have loved me and to serve them as if I were serving you. Let my life reflect your heart today and always. Amen.