The Focus of the Sacraments

The Focus of the Sacraments
The Number of Sacraments
Evaluation of other "sacraments."

The Sacraments, baptism and the Lord’s Supper, focus on the saving work of Jesus Christ for you. The Sacraments of themselves are not to be inappropriately elevated, or they will become sinful, as they take away from the thing signified. The Sacraments are not to be ignored, or the full meaning brushed aside, or you will rob yourself the grace that comes from them.

Brothers and Sisters in Jesus Christ:

1. When you see someone baptized or when you participate in the Lord’s Supper, let it take you back to the cross and see the blood of Christ dripping to the ground…the blood that made you clean…and let that sink into your heart…eat it as spiritual food…that it might nourish you. Let the Sacraments scream out: “The Lord died for you,” so that you never forget it.

2. Don’t ever get tired of the sacraments. Look forward to them. Don’t rob yourself of one of the greatest motivations to serving the Lord with vigor.

3. Let the Sacraments be a witness to the world. Let them see you nourished…and live well…and then let them ask: How are you so peaceful in a world of strife?