i'm not 100% sure but, i don't think those lines work:
'********
symbol DOUT = PORTC.5 'line for data input connected to RC5
symbol CLK = PORTC.3 'CLK line connected to pin RC3
symbol Load = PORTA.3


must be like this
'********
DOUT VAR PORTC.5 'line for data input connected to RC5
CLK VAR PORTC.3 'CLK line connected to pin RC3
Load VAR PORTA.3

i've order one MAX7219 to play with... i'm still curious on this chip.

i'll still check if i can find something to help you.

regards