Novena to Our Mother of Health, Nuestra Señora de la Salud [Day 5]

FIFTH DAY - 12 NOVEMBER

The Expectation of Mary

Scripture Passage

This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). (Matthew 1: 18-23)

Consideration

Let us consider the tender anxieties and the burning affections of the Heart of the Most Holy Mary, in order to discover in the Word what would be the health of the world. Having God with her, she did not stop entertaining the strong desires of sharing Him who was born of Her Virginal Womb with people. The Heavenly Princess spent long hours in fervent prayer because her love was so ardent; and her love is charity that looks at the neighbors. From here came her ardent desire that all creatures may enjoy the Son of her womb, by sharing with the Universe, His light--like a brilliant sun whose rays extend with immense clarity. She did not wish to be alone-- the Virgin who had achieved so many benefits--for she knew, with great vividness, how important was the birth of Jesus for us--who are in a different situation--living without consolation and remedy. And even if she enjoyed having in her womb the Eternal Word, Mary prefers the common good than her particular convenience. Though it was great for her to enjoy being alone with the God-Man, nevertheless, she wished to share Him so that all people may enjoy the One who would give health to the entire humanity.

Prayer

Most loving Virgin, Model of most fervent Charity, who even if how much you love your children, you never cease to love us, even if you see that we all had been despicable and ungrateful. All of us repentant and sorrowful beg you, that since, out of pure clemency you granted us the Son of your womb, and in Him all our happiness and health, we hope in Him alone who is our life; may we mistrust the world that deceives us; and may we live with strong hope, that through your kindness and love we may see Him and be happy with Him forever. Amen.

(Pray 5 Hail Marys in honor of the five letters of the most sweet name of MARIA) Nuestra Señora de la Salud, stay close to comfort us! ¡Viva Virgen de la Salud!