Day 20- Hand of Jesus in All

"The hand of Jesus it is that guides everything-

 we ought to see only Him in all things." 

 ~ St. Therese

Preparatory Prayer:

Dear St. Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, I thank the Most Holy Trinity for all the graces lavished upon you, and through you upon the world.  I have great confidence in your intercession, both because of your power in Heaven, since you yourself said that "God would refuse you nothing," and because of your goodness and your promise that "no one would invoke you without receiving answer, since you would "spend your Heaven in doing good upon earth" and "let fall from Heaven a shower of roses."  Intercede for me with the loving Hearts of Jesus and Mary, that the Holy Spirit may assist me to understand your teaching on "Joy in Suffering" and may grant me the gift of fortitude, that fired with a burning love of God and souls, I may eagerly follow you in joyous suffering and share in your glorious triumph.  I promise to show my heartfelt gratitude by doing whatever I can to promote your honor and to make you ever more widely known and loved throughout the world, for the greater glory of the Most Holy Trinity.  Amen.

Reflection:

Saint Therese knew that everything came from the hand of God, both good and bad.  In knowing this, she then was certain that all things, even the worst of trials, were for her own good and from the loving  hand of God.  St. Therese said, "Let us accept with a good heart the thorn that Jesus presents to us."  She was never afraid because she said, "I am happy, most happy, to suffer!  If Jesus Himself does not pierce me, He guides the hand that does."

Prayer:

Dear St. Therese, help me to see that everything in my life, both the good and the bad, is a gift from God.  You knew that God only wanted what was best for you and your soul, even when He sent you trials.  Help me to be always thankful for what God has given me, even the gift of suffering, for my own holiness.  Help me to have a "good heart" and always a smile for Jesus when I accept my many blessings or sufferings throughout my days.

I also recommend to you my special intentions in this Novena (Specify your intentions.)  To one who has suffered so much for Him, God will refuse nothing.

Our Father....  Hail Mary....  Glory Be....