A Grateful Heart

An Eternal Love That Sustains Life

God’s Word reminds us of a deep and constant truth:

“The Lord has appeared of old to me, saying: “Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.” (Jeremiah 31:3).

This verse clearly summarizes the story of my life: a love that reached me even when I was not looking for it, and a mercy that sustained me through every season.

An Unexpected Starting Point

My life changed many years ago, in January 1986, during one of the most difficult moments I have ever faced. I was 24 years old and traveled to Puerto Rico trying to escape my problems, but I soon realized that problems do not stay behind when the heart continues to carry them. I was not a religious person, nor had I been, but something happened during that trip. Without fully realizing it, a prophecy my grandmother had given me years earlier was being fulfilled.

Three days after arriving in Puerto Rico, my cousin Belkis invited me on a blind date. That night I met a young woman who today is my beloved wife, Vilma. We began dating, and little by little God started working in our lives, transforming my character and marking a turning point in my story.

God’s Grace in Building a Family

I returned to Chicago thinking I would not come back, but the Lord had other plans. I returned to Puerto Rico to be with that young woman, and a few months later we were married. God gave us a beautiful family: two wonderful children and a faithful wife. Through the years we witnessed the power of Jesus at work in our lives. We went through many hardships, but we were never abandoned.

At the age of 33, I surrendered my life and my family to Christ Jesus, and everything changed. Our home was firmly established, my finances began to flourish, and sin was left behind. I took my children by the hand, guiding them in sports and in their studies, and in time I saw them achieve their goals. Today, both are successful engineers.

Esteban, the oldest, moved to the city of Boston, married a beautiful woman named Gretchen, and today is a devoted father to a precious little girl named Paulina. Fabián, my second son, stayed in Puerto Rico, met a wonderful woman named Jessenia, and in February they will be getting married, forming a new family. Truly, God has been good.

Living Each Day With Gratitude

Now, at 64 years of age and after 39 years of marriage, I am entering my final year of work, preparing for retirement and to enjoy life alongside my beloved wife. We have worked hard and tirelessly to reach this point. I live deeply grateful, seeking to enjoy each day and every moment, with a heart satisfied by the grace of God that has filled my life.

I am not a great preacher, I do not hold a doctorate, and I am far from perfect. But every day I kneel down and lift my eyes to heaven, giving thanks for His love and His mercy.

Looking Toward the Future With Hope

We close the year 2025 and step into 2026 filled with new expectations and dreams, always placing God first, without fear or anxiety. My children and my beloved wife—I love you with all my strength and with all my heart. I will always be grateful for what God has done in my life.

Thank You, Lord, for Your goodness and Your grace.