That thorn in your paw
Did you know that the reason a Novena is said for 9 days is because it mirrors the nine-day period by the Apostles and the Virgin Mary when they prayed while waiting for the Holy Spirit between the Ascension and Pentecost while in the Upper room. Also, the nine days represents the 9 months Jesus spent in Mary's womb. Also, historically, it stems from early Christian custom of a nine-day period of mourning and petition. How beautiful these meanings are! I always wondered why we prayed for 9 days when asking the intercession of a Saint for our petition. Our petitions rise with the Holy Spirit to our Heavenly Father. Casting ourselves with sweet surrender to the ears of God. Our prayers gain momentum each day recited over and over with the Hope, that God's Providence is realized. Giving us the answer we ask for or at least the Grace and Strength to bear the waiting. Either way, we pray with confidence, that each Saint we are asking to intercede for us, is doing everything in their Blessed power to help us so that they may join their voice with ours to be heard by God.
We are "never" ever alone. There is a sweet Saint for all necessities. God is so good to us!
Pray those novenas and surrender yourself to the guidance and judgment of your petition. We can do all things in God who strengthens us, and with each day said of that Novena, it gains strength.
I believe Lord, strengthen my belief! Jesus I trust in you, take care of everything.