Chalk and Cheese

Prayer Pairs #11

We’re likely familiar with the phrase of comparison describing a stark difference between two people, things or situations. For instance, we hear about two people who are as different as chalk and cheese. Ever wondered where the phrase comes from? While we can agree that chalk and cheese don’t seem to belong together, why were they ever compared one with the other?

The comparison dates back to 13th Century in England. Shopkeepers would adjust their wares, one example was by adding chalk into cheese to make their stock go further and increase their sales. Eventually people caught onto the practice and complained that chalk and cheese did not taste the same.

Today’s prayers are about differences between people and yet being able to come alongside others despite these differences. Jesus was pretty clear how we are to act towards others.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and most important commandment. The second most important commandment is like this one. And it is, “Love others as much as you love yourself.”

Matthew 22:37-39 (CEV)

Time to get out that chalk and cheese and pray.

On the journey

Caroline