THE LORD COMES TO VISIT ME 

After the fire there was a tiny whispering sound. When he heard this, Elijah hid his face in his cloak and went and stood at the entrance of the cave. A voice said to him, "Elijah, why are you here?” (I Kings 19:12-13).

I put myself in the presence of God, I leave the cave of my daily worries, I put my thoughts to rest and I listen attentively, allowing as much time as necessary to pass. Finally, the Lord will ask my heart: “Why are you here?” 

Now is the time to open my heart, to tell him everything that I had kept for myself, that which I did not pay attention to, but somehow got in the way. I speak plainly and simply with the Lord, expressing all my desires. 

I let my heart express broadly; he is listening to me very attentively. 

Finally, I can reply: "Here I am Lord..."

I make my petitions with confidence. I ask for myself and I offer this first day of the novena for mine and for all those who most need God's love, support and mercy.