Novena to the Holy Name, day III

Day Three: The Salutary Operation of the Name of Jesus

Consider, devout soul, that the name Jesus signifies nothing else than Savior; and St. Peter (Acts 4:12) assures us that the Eternal Father has not given to men any other name by which they may be saved amidst the snares of this deceitful world, than the adorable name of Jesus. It is this name that makes the truth of faith shine everywhere, and that calls all men from the depths of darkness to the adorable light of the Gospel. It is by virtue of this adorable name that the Apostle gave light to the blind, made the lame walk, healed the sick, raised the dead to life, and filled the whole world with astonishment. And if the Angel at first announced that Jesus would bring life into the world by delivering it from the cruel slavery into which Adam had plunged it, this good Savior confirmed this promise himself when he declared (Jn 10:10) that he had come so that his sheep might have life, and might have it more abundantly. By virtue of his name we see idolatry overthrown, to the great confusion of the pagan princes and priests, who did all in their power to maintain it. We see the Synagogue vanquished,... who with threats of punishments had forbidden the Apostles (Acts 4:17) to preach and invoke this powerful name. Ah since in this world there is no good that is not due to the efficiency of the name of Jesus, let us acknowledge with humility and with love the source of all these riches; and if in the past we have been unfaithful, let us once for all put an end to our ingratitude, and let us endeavor to repair all the wrong that we have done, and say: O amiable and holy name of Jesus! may the seraphim of heaven give to You for me suitable thanks, and never cease to praise You by forever repeating that You do merit all glory, all honor, and all power. My sweet Savior, I hope to obtain, by virtue of Your name, the salvation of my body and soul ; I hope that with this glorious name in my heart and on my lips, victorious over the world and the flesh, I shall have the happiness to sing Your praises and to bless the august Trinity for ever and ever.

Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory be to the Father, etc., in honor of the salutary operation of the name of Jesus.
Versicle and prayer:

V.Blessed be the Name of the Lord!

R.From henceforth and for evermore!

Let us pray.

God, who did appoint Your only-begotten Son Savor of mankind, and did command that he should be called Jesus, mercifully grant that we may enjoy the vision of him in heaven, whose holy Name we venerate on earth. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.