Napoleon is often credited as saying, "an army marches on its stomach."
As much as an army relies upon weapons, strategy, courage, and camaraderie, it relies upon food. A well-armored band of loyal, heroic waifs may fall victim to their pangs before they fall prey to their enemies.
It is easy to overlook obvious needs when focusing on pressing needs. When you think of battle, you naturally focus on bullets and bombs. The narrowness of the category can push ordinary needs like food and water to the periphery.
Jonathan's eyes were brightened by good food. Not just having something to eat, but having something good to eat made all the difference. Food doesn't just keep us alive, it can give us an appreciation for living and the fuel to continue fighting the good fight.
God could have made food purely functional, but He made it taste good.
I love this perspective. I sometimes really have a hard time in my head, justifying 'indulging' in nice things on earth. Is it worldly to want good food, and a personal home? Like, I know CS Lewis was all about enjoying life, but sometimes I wonder how he was so SURE he wasn't investing too much in the stuff here. I even know Jesus set an example for us of enjoyment - not just wine, but the best wine. Not just perfume, but the best perfume. Those things don't seem to have much eternal value. But I think you're absolutely right -as much as those things refresh us and give us strength and appreciation for the cause, they're necessary!
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