Novena for Chronic Illness – Day 7: Union with Christ
Join in praying the Novena for Chronic Illness to seek God's grace and assistance for those suffering from chronic illness.
Today's Focus: Union with Christ
Pray to grow closer to Christ through sufferings.
Prayer for Day 7
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Dear Lord, we thank You and praise You for the many ways You have assisted us throughout the trials and sufferings of our lives. We humbly ask You to pour out Your grace and assistance on all those who suffer from a chronic illness.
Chronic illness can bring a lot of physical and emotional suffering to people. Though such sufferings are often seen as a terrible burden to be avoided whenever possible, these sufferings can also help one to grow in holiness and to grow closer to Jesus.
Please bless and assist all people who suffer from chronic illness, and we especially ask You today to help all those who suffer from chronic illness to grow closer to Christ through their sufferings!
Help us to rely on Your strength through all of the trials of our lives. Help us to seek to grow closer to You each day.
And I especially ask in this novena (mention your intentions here).
Lord, hear our prayers!
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Reflection for Today
Today we pray for those who suffer from chronic illness to grow closer to Christ through their sufferings. While suffering is never easy, it can be a powerful means of spiritual growth and union with Christ.
When we suffer, we can unite our sufferings with Christ's sufferings on the cross. We can offer our pain, frustration, and limitations as a prayer for others and as a way of participating in Christ's redemptive work. This can give our suffering meaning and purpose.
Those who suffer from chronic illness have a unique opportunity to grow in holiness through their daily struggles. They can develop patience, perseverance, trust, and other virtues that are difficult to cultivate in easier circumstances.
As we pray for them today, let us remember that God can bring good out of even the most difficult situations. He wants to help those who suffer to find meaning and purpose in their suffering and to grow closer to Him through it.
Let us ask God to help all those who suffer from chronic illness to see their suffering as an opportunity to grow closer to Christ and to participate in His redemptive work.
How to Make an Excellent Novena
Trust in God
Trust completely in God's providence and His ability to help you. Turn to Him with confidence in every need.
Be Persistent
Pray this novena with persistence and faith. God will not fail to help those who turn to Him with trust.
Be Specific
Present your specific needs and intentions to God. He wants to help you with the particular difficulties you face.
Be Grateful
Thank God for His help and grace. Gratitude opens our hearts to receive more graces.
Closing Prayer
Dear Lord, we thank You for hearing our prayers today. Help all those who suffer from chronic illness to find the grace and strength they need. Give them hope, comfort, and peace in their difficult journey. May they find meaning and purpose in their suffering and grow closer to You each day. Amen.