Provision in the Field of Redemption
Our Sabbath meal today is inspired by the Book of Ruth, a beautiful story of loyalty, provision, and redemption. After returning to Bethlehem during a time of great need, Ruth, a Moabite stranger, finds favor in the field of Boaz, a wealthy and godly kinsman.
Boaz, the master of the harvest, extends incredible hospitality and protection to Ruth. He invites her to share a communal meal with his reapers, offering her bread dipped in vinegar (a refreshing ancient condiment) and parched corn (roasted grain) from his own store:
“And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left.” (1Ruth 2:14, KJV)
This generous invitation to share the abundant harvest symbolizes our own spiritual redemption and the abundant provision we receive through the greater Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Our feast today—a communal roast and hearty lentil side—celebrates the generosity of God’s provision.
Full Recipe: The Redeemer’s Roast and Harvest Lentils
These recipes are structured to be fully prepared on Friday, utilizing the slow cooker and baking for easy holding and reheating on the Sabbath.
A. The Redeemer’s Slow-Cooker Pot Roast (Clean & Tender)
The roast is cooked to perfection and is ideal for keeping warm or gently reheating on the Sabbath.
| Category | Ingredient | Amount |
| Roast | Beef Chuck Roast (or Brisket), trimmed | 4-5 lbs |
| Aromatics | Yellow Onion, thickly sliced | 1 large |
| Garlic Cloves, whole or smashed | 6-8 cloves | |
| Vegetables | Carrots, cut into large chunks | 6 large |
| Red or Yukon Gold Potatoes, halved | 1.5 lbs | |
| Seasoning | Kosher Salt | 2 tsp |
| Black Pepper, freshly ground | 1 tsp | |
| Dried Bay Leaves | 2 leaves | |
| Liquid | Clean Beef Broth (low sodium) | 1.5 cups |
| Olive Oil (for searing) | 2 Tbsp |
Steps to Prepare
- Prep and Sear: Pat the roast dry and rub with 1 teaspoon of salt and the pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear the roast for 3-4 minutes per side until a dark crust forms. Transfer the roast to the slow cooker insert.
- Layer and Season: Place the onions, carrots, and potatoes around the roast. Season the vegetables with the remaining salt and add the bay leaves.
- Braise (Friday): Pour the beef broth around the meat. Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or on HIGH for 4–5 hours until the meat is incredibly tender.
- Sabbath Serving: Keep the roast on the “Keep Warm” setting in the slow cooker or reheat gently. Serve with the vegetables and the savory cooking liquid (jus).
B. Baked Harvest Lentil Pilaf (Sturdy Side Dish)
This pilaf is prepared entirely on Friday, ensuring a hearty, fully-cooked side that holds up beautifully for the Sabbath meal.
| Category | Ingredient | Amount |
| Lentils & Grain | Brown Lentils, rinsed thoroughly | 1 cup |
| Brown Rice or Quinoa, rinsed | 1 cup | |
| Aromatics | Yellow Onion, finely diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves | |
| Vegetables | Diced Tomatoes (no sugar added) | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
| Liquid | Clean Vegetable or Chicken Broth (low sodium) | 4 cups |
| Seasoning | Olive Oil | 2 Tbsp |
| Dried Oregano and Cumin | 1 tsp each | |
| Kosher Salt and Black Pepper | To taste | |
| Garnish | Fresh Parsley or Dill, chopped | For serving |
Steps to Prepare
- Sauté: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In an oven-safe pot (like a Dutch oven), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened. Add the garlic, oregano, and cumin, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine & Bake (Friday): Add the rinsed lentils, grain, diced tomatoes, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil on the stovetop. Cover the pot tightly and immediately transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 45–55 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the mixture is tender.
- Sabbath Serving: This pilaf can be gently reheated in a covered dish or served warm. Stir in the fresh herbs just before serving.
A Closing Prayer for the Reader
May the love of God be evident in your fellowship and provision this Sabbath.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for this day of rest and for the food we share. We remember the generosity of Boaz and the deep trust of Ruth, a story that shows us your kindness to those seeking refuge.
As we eat this meal, remind us of Jesus, our Redeemer, and the boundless grace he has shown us. Fill our time together with peace, joy, and meaningful conversation. We hold onto the blessed hope of Your glorious Return.
Amen.