Day 3 of Novena to Our Lady of the Snows

Scripture:
“And went a day’s journey into the wilderness, until he came to a solitary broom tree and sat beneath it. He prayed for death: “Enough, LORD! Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors. He lay down and fell asleep under the solitary broom tree, but suddenly a messenger* touched him and said, “Get up and eat!” — 1 Kings 19:4–5

“Come to me… and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

Contemplation:
Where do you need God’s consolation today?

Reflection:
There are days when the weight you carry cannot be seen… but it is deeply felt.
A heaviness of mind… a quiet ache in the heart… a weariness that words cannot fully express.
Elijah knew this place.
Alone in the wilderness, he felt drained… defeated… ready to give up.
And yet—God did not turn away.
Instead, he came gently…
with rest… with nourishment… with the quiet strength to take one more step.
“Arise, and eat,” the angel said… for the journey is too much for you alone.
And even now, that same tender voice speaks to you.
“Come to me… all who labor and are burdened… and I will give you rest.”
Not tomorrow.
Not when everything is fixed.
But now… right here.
Our Lady of Consolation… you who draw near to the burdened heart, walk beside us in these hidden battles.
When thoughts overwhelm… bring stillness.
When sorrow presses in… bring light.
When the soul feels tired beyond words… wrap it in peace.
You are not asked to carry everything at once.
Only to take the next step… to receive what God gently offers.
Like Elijah, you are not abandoned.

Prayer:
Our Lady of Consolation,
you who comfort the afflicted,
draw near to all who carry heavy burdens of the mind and heart.
For those overwhelmed by anxiety—bring calm.
For those weighed down by depression—bring light.
For those exhausted by grief, fear, or despair—bring rest.
As Elijah was strengthened in his darkest hour
and as Jesus invites the weary to Himself,
may your gentle presence guide us to the healing embrace of God.
Wrap us in your mantle of peace,
and restore our spirits with hope that does not fail.
Amen.