In “As Now We Take the Sacrament” Elder L. Tom Perry talks about the importance of the sacrament. He opens his talk by speaking about when he first received the priesthood and began passing the sacrament. He comments that he noticed that several people took it as though it were just a routine. But that he noticed others who took the sacrament with great reverence. Elder Perry says:
“The sacrament is one of the most sacred ordinances in the Church. Partaking of the sacrament worthily gives us an opportunity for spiritual growth . . .
When we partake of the sacrament worthily, we remember the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior, that He gave up His life and took upon Himself the sins of the world that we may have the blessing of immortality. We take upon ourselves the name of our Savior and promise to always remember Him and to keep His commandments—that is, to ‘live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God’ (D&C 84:44).”
The sacrament is an opportunity for each of us to remember our baptismal covenants. We should take the opportunity to reflect on our relationship with our Savior. It is also important to teach our children about the importance of taking the sacrament. Elder Perry tells of an experience his family had when they were on vacation and visited another chapel in order to take the sacrament. Elder Perry gives this counsel to parents:
“Parents, you have the responsibility of teaching your families the importance of attending sacrament meeting weekly. It should be a regular family practice. Every family needs that time of renewing and committing to live the gospel in accordance with the teachings of the Savior. Families, properly prepared, will attend sacrament meeting with a spirit of reverence and with gratitude for the opportunity of partaking of the sacred emblems.”
As we strive to teach our children the importance of the sacrament, it is important that we lead by example. This is an excellent talk. Elder Perry includes several scriptures and stories to illustrate his points. I hope that you will take the time to read it.