January 2026
In a very small town surrounded by mountains, my family was always busy at Christmas. One Christmas as I looked at the mountains, I began to sing Silent Night. A little shy at first, quickly I forgot where I was and began to sing loud just wanting to praise the Lord. I felt the presence of God surrounding me in love, it felt so real.
Since that night, I promised to always take some time at Christmas to search for his presence amid all the rush of the season, just to experience his loving embrace that fills my heart with joy.
This year, on the longest night of the year, I found myself in a hospital bed. It did feel like a very long night in a strange place without knowing what the future would bring. For hours I waited as they did tests and tried to decide whether I could go home or not.
Just like that night in my childhood, I was aware that I was not alone in that dark lonely room without windows. I could feel that indescribable presence of God filling the room with peace and with that certainty that I am deeply loved, that whatever comes in my future, I can trust in God's love.
As I lay down on the uncomfortable bed, I realized this is probably why the people I visit are so happy when they see me visiting and reminding them how much they are loved. Isn't that amazing? To have the privilege of visiting and sharing God's word with those living their longest night so it will be more bearable and not so scary.
On the longest night of the year, I reconnected with my past realizing how deeply grateful I am for this call to preach, to serve, to bless. I also learned that in order to fulfill this call I need to rest, I need to eat, I need to seriously pay attention to myself.
Epiphany, the wisdom from heaven, has come early this year for me, for on the longest night, once again I choose to trust, I choose to shine, I choose to love, no matter what!
Blessings!
Rev. Ileana Rosario