The Fellowship of the Common Pot
The preparation of a shared meal, such as a hearty stew or pottage, has long been a feature of communal life and fellowship. This modern chili is built upon the foundation of accessible ingredients, yet it strongly echoes this ancient tradition. The theme it illustrates is the profound biblical concept of Gathering and Unity, which is central to God’s plan for His people.
The prophets spoke clearly of this ultimate assembly. Zechariah declared God’s intent to bring His people together:
“Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the Lord of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the Lord.” (Zechariah 8:22, KJV)
This chili serves as a powerful, tangible symbol of the divine gathering. The many distinct components—the ground beef, the beans, the spices, and the tomatoes—are all brought into one pot, simmering together to achieve a rich, unified flavor. This reminds the believer that the Church, the body of Christ, is composed of diverse individuals who, when united in faith and fellowship, create a spiritual strength greater than the sum of their parts. Sharing this meal encourages focus on the ultimate assembly: the promised reunion of the saints at the Lord’s Return.
Hearty Sabbath Chili (The Gathering Dish)
This recipe provides instructions for a rich, flavorful chili adhering to biblical cleanliness laws (Kosher/Clean). It is designed to be fully prepared and cooked prior to the Sabbath and then held warm for serving.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Ground Beef | 1 pound | Must be from a clean animal (Leviticus 11:3). |
| Chili Beans (Canned) | 1 (15-oz) can | Undrained to add thickness and richness. |
| Ro-Tel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilis | 1 (10-oz) can | Undrained for liquid and spice. |
| Tomato Paste | 1 (6-oz) can | Essential for a rich, deep tomato flavor. |
| Water or Broth | 1 cup | For necessary liquid and simmering. |
| Chopped Onion | 1 medium | Optional, but adds flavor depth. |
| Chili Powder | 2 tablespoons | The primary seasoning. |
| Ground Cumin | 1 tablespoon | The flavorful, ancient spice. |
| Coarse Sea Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Steps to Prepare (To be completed entirely before the Sabbath begins)
1. Brown Meat and Paste
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef and the chopped onion (if used) over medium heat.
- Drain off any excess fat after browning the meat.
- Stir in the entire can of tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to caramelize the paste and build a deeper flavor foundation.
2. Season and Combine
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Pour in the can of Ro-Tel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilis and the cup of water or broth.
- Stir in the can of chili beans (undrained).
3. Full Cooking Process
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for a minimum of 45 minutes (longer is preferable) to ensure all ingredients are fully cooked and the flavors are thoroughly integrated.
- Taste and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, or chili powder) as needed.
4. Sabbath Service Preparation
- Once fully cooked, the chili should be transferred to a crock-pot, slow-cooker, or equivalent warming device that is set up and turned on before the Sabbath begins. The chili can then be held at a warm, gentle temperature for hours, allowing the flavors to continue developing without violating the Sabbath rest by initiating a new cooking process.
| Aspect | Time Estimate |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes (Hands-on) |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes (Simmer Minimum) |
| Sabbath Simmer | Held warm for the duration of the Sabbath |
🙏 A Closing Prayer
Sovereign Lord,
The assembly of the Church is your sure promise, and we thank Thee for this Sabbath fellowship. We pray that as these flavors have merged into one hearty dish, our hearts may be united in the Defence of the Truth. Guide us to live lives that reflect holiness and spiritual cleanliness. Strengthen us in our watchfulness and faith, that we may be found ready and waiting for the glorious Return of Jesus Christ. Amen.