Mother Teresa of Calcutta Novena - Day 4

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Memorare: Remember, O Most Gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known, that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen (mention request here…) Mother’s Devotion to the Sick and Suffering: The Missionaries of Charity saw the face of the Jesus in the face of every person they rendered aid and comfort to. Mother Teresa went even further and asserted that such suffering was in fact “but a kiss of Jesus – a sign that you have come so close to Jesus that he can kiss you. – I think this is the most beautiful definition of suffering.” The power of redemptive suffering (where offering one’s prayers and suffering to God in union with those of Christ) was harnessed by Mother Teresa in an innovative way. “Love demands sacrifice. But if we love until it hurts, God will give us His peace and joy…Suffering in itself is nothing; but suffering shared with Christ’s Passion is a wonderful gift.” She saw that those who were too sick to join in the physical work of the Missionaries of Charity could join forces with the active sisters! “You see, the aim of our Society is to satiate the thirst of Jesus on the Cross for love of souls by working for the salvation and sanctification of the poor in the slums. – Who could do this better than you & the others who suffer like you? Your suffering and prayers will be the chalice in which we that working members will pour in the love of souls we gather round….In reality, you can do much more while on your bed of pain than I running on my feet, but you & I together can do all things in Him who strengthens us.” What an amazing mission for someone perhaps homebound or bed-ridden! To be the spiritual engine behind a Missionary of Charity physically caring for the poor and sick thousands of miles away. In this Spirit-filled inspiration, Mother gave care, comfort and meaning not just to the sick she and her sisters came in contact with, but to those who they would never meet in this world, but certainly in the next! Prayer: Father, you gave Mother Teresa eyes to see the reality of the value of those who suffered when that suffering was united with that of Jesus your Son. Send your Spirit to open our eyes to give care and comfort to those who suffer physical or mental afflictions, and to offer our own sufferings in a spirit of love and reparation for the salvation of the world and for the continued vitality of all the branches of the Missionaries of Charity. Amen In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.Amen.