The Sabbath and the Sacrament - L. Tom Perry

  "We must commit ourselves to study it and treasure it." He is referring to the New Testament which is this year's topic for our Sunday classes. In my plan of scripture study, I will soon finish both the Old Testament and the Book of Mormon and begin the New Testament and plan to finish it by year end. By treasuring it, we then can focus on being better examples of the believers as we observe the Sabbath day. Here are some of the observances we need to do:

• Partaking of the sacrament is the center. This is where and when we do "self investigation" and "self-inspection" to change our course as needed. This is the time to renew and always remember Him to claim the promise of the companionship of the Spirit.
• Keep ourselves unspotted from the world. Avoid worldly distractions of businesses and recreational facilities on that day. Dress appropriately.
• Go to the house of prayer and offer up our sacraments. Confess and forsake our sins and errors to the Lord and to others.
• Rest from our labors. Avoid activities that take us away from worship and the opportunity to minister to others.
• Teach our children how to be examples of the believers by attending sacrament meeting well rested, properly dressed and spiritually prepared to partake of the sacrament.

  On our reading list perhaps we should add; Sermons and Missionary Services of Melvin Joseph Ballard - Bryant S. Hinckley (1949) (Used copies through Amazon.com but not as yet on Kindle). Melvin J. Ballard spoke as an Apostle to the Phoenix Ward in about 1926 when J.R. Price was the Bishop. Elder Ballard had just returned from South America and two young men in that audience were inspired to serve and then sent to Brazil.