Is Jesus your crutch?

Patrick Novecosky writes that we are called to rely on Christ in good times and bad . . .

Patrick Novecosky

There’s nothing like taking a leisurely walk or bike ride on a beautiful summer morning to start your day in conversation with the Lord. A few years ago, I was doing just that when I spotted some graffiti on a bridge. It simply said, “Jesus Crutch.”

It was meant as a slur, but it got me thinking. We lean on a crutch when we’re hurt and unable to rely on our own strength to get us where we’re going. A crutch helps us on our journey, allowing us to do what we can’t do on our own. Reflecting on the graffiti message, I was struck by the realization that Jesus is indeed my crutch. I lean on him when I feel like I can’t go on. After all, he tells us to come to him when we are weary and he will give us rest. “My yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Mt 11:28-30).

Legatus members know well how to rely on the Lord. Even though most Legates are well-off financially, they recognize that everything they have is a gift from God to be used for his glory. They also recognize that financial stability in no way ensures a trouble-free earthly existence. Members of the Jersey Shore, New York City and Long Island chapters who were affected by Hurricane Sandy put their trust in the Christ, leaning heavily on him when destruction came knocking last October. (Click here for a related story)

Some Legates lost their homes in the superstorm, while others lost businesses. Everyone in the region was impacted in some way by one of the costliest storms in the nation’s history. But amid the destruction, a spirit of camaraderie and faith-filled generosity arose. Neighbors became friends when they shared tools to rebuild their homes, and acquaintances became closer when they lent a hand to help clear rubble.

Through it all — good times and bad — we are called to rely on Christ as our strength. The more we lean on him, the more we are conformed to his image and become like him. As St. Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Gal 2:20).

The more we rely on Jesus—sustained by a real and active relationship with him—the more he is able to do in our lives. Jesus told St. Faustina, “I am only limited by your lack of trust.” During the lazy days of summer, we could all spend some time each day on the relationship that sustains us during every season of our lives.

PATRICK NOVECOSKY is Legatus magazine’s editor-in-chief.