Bill and Kym Peavoy: The Sacrament

An important word that Luke and Nephi use to describe the sacrament is that Jesus’ body was “given” for us. Paul did not use this word. It is important to remember that the Lord gave of his own blood and flesh for us.

When not to partake of the sacrament:

Corinthians 11:27-29 - Do not partake of if you are unworthy

3 Nephi 18:28-29 - Do not let anyone partake of the sacrament if you know that they are not worthy.

We talked about these things in my discussion group this week and we decided that the 3 Nephi reference is mostly referring to the duty of Priesthood holders, especially Bishops.

If we partake unworthily we are guilty of the blood of the Lord. We will be damned if we do so.

It is important for me to remember that the Savior actually instituted the sacrament Himself. It was that important for Him to have us remember what He did for us. If I keep that in my mind it is easier for me to have a meaningful experience during sacrament meeting and throughout the week.

My thoughts: The sacramental prayer is one of the only prayers that needs to be recited as it is written. It is important that it be done right, or it has to be re-done.

From the prophets: Joseph Smith was told not to purchase alcohol form enemies so the church focused on producing its own wine until he received the Word of Wisdom which said that alcohol consumption is harmful to the body. In the late 19^th century church leaders started to take the Word of Wisdom as a commandment and changed the wine to water. (Taken from Wikipedia).

Elder Dallin H. Oaks says, “Those who hold the Aaronic Priesthood open the door for all Church members who worthily partake of the sacrament to enjoy the companionship of the Spirit of the Lord and the ministering of angels.” My oldest son, Liam, will turn 12 this summer and he is so looking forward to holding the Priesthood so that he can pass the sacrament in our meetings.