Crackers and Cheese

by | Mar 14, 2023 | Grace, Salvation

I remember a story I heard a long time ago about a couple that planned a cruise. After paying more than they expected for the cruise they decided that they had to be very frugal on the trip. They would spend the bare minimum on everything. The wife packed one whole suitcase full of crackers and cheese which they planned to eat to save money on expenses. When they got on board, they were greeted by a waiter who asked where they would be dining that evening. The couple sheepishly told him they hadn’t made up their mind yet but both knew their destination. They had planned to make a meal of the cheese and crackers they had brought from home. 

As planned, they dined on the crackers and cheese until they thought they could not eat another bite while they watched others on the ship eat delicacies they could only dream of eating. Mouth watering food, flashy drinks and decadent deserts were everywhere. The couple wondered how so many people could afford such extravagance but each night they trudge up to their cabin for a few crackers and some cheese. 

The cruise was finally over and frankly the couple, being tired of cheese and crackers was ready. As they left the ship the Captain asked them how they enjoyed the food. “We couldn’t afford the food” the man finally blurted out, “we brought our own food!” The Captain, puzzled, said, “Didn’t anyone tell you that the food was included in the price. Everything was there for the asking!” 
I wondered what I have forfeited because I did not ask God. Peace, maybe was included in the price Jesus paid on the cross but how many times do I fail to give my worries to Him to gain that coveted peace. 

Last night was one of those nights that sleep would not come because of worry. I tried to pray but nothing relieved the anxiety that I felt for certain situations. I found myself munching on the cheese and crackers of worry instead of the banquet of peace that was included in the price already paid for me. 

This morning I read a familiar verse from Matthew that says simply to come to Him and He will give me rest. I will again place my burdens on His strong shoulders because He asks me to. He was strong enough to carry the cross to Calvary, He is strong enough to carry my burdens too! He already paid the price, enjoy the banquet!

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”  (Matthew 11:28 NIV)

Jeanie Nihiser
jeanie@answers2prayer.org
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31 NIV)

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