Emilee Bunker - Winchester Hills 2nd Ward

Remember when we were encouraged to 'rethink and refocus our efforts on what we do on the Sabbath day?' (I believe it was in the summer of 2015).  Ever since then I have been taking "baby steps" to improve on not just my outward observance but my heartfelt commitment of the Lord's day. With the stake challenge to become a "Zion people" I have been more earnestly trying to apply the messages from three conference addresses - "The Sacrament Can Help Us Become Holly", "The Blessings of Worship", and "Gratitude on the Sabbath Day".  

For my post today I will just reference the first talk by Elder Peter F. Meurs, p. 85. This talk first came to my attention in late Nov. when the two full-time Elders in our stake spoke in our ward.  They brought such a spirit to our Sacrament Meeting and both gave inspiring talks.  One shared some of the specifics of Elder Meurs message.  I went home and read it.  

He gives 5 suggestions in making our participation in the sacrament more sacred and meaningful. 1-. Prepare in Advance   2- Arrive Early  3-  Sing and Learn from the Words of the Sacrament Hymn  4- Spiritually Participate in the Sacrament Prayers  5-  Ponder and Remember Him as the Sacrament Emblems Are Passed .

 As I am striving to apply Elder Meurs counsel in each of these areas (with special emphasis on 4 & 5), my testimony and appreciation of the Savior has grown.  During the weeks I have noticed how it is getting easier to more quickly think of Him and remember the covenants I have made with Him when the turmoil in the world seeks to take center stage.  Focusing on Him removes fear and replaces it with faith.  The words of the sacrament prayers give us great assurances and promises as we keep our covenants with Him.  What a choice weekly blessing it is!

He asks these questions at the end of his message:

Q:  "What will I do this week to better prepare for the sacrament?"

Q:  "Could I contribute more to the reverence and revelation that can accompany the     

       beginning of Sacrament meeting?

Q:  "What doctrine was taught in the sacrament hymn?"

Q:  "What did I hear and feel as I listened to the sacrament prayers?"

Q:  "What did I think about as the sacrament was passed?"

I am thankful for President Stucki's challenge to each of us.  It is a blessing to be asked to become part of a Zion people right here in our own Stake.  One by one we contribute and add strength to each other as we focus on our Heavenly Father and the Savior and seek to put them FIRST in our lives.  In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen 

Emilee Bunker