Sacramental Reflections

by Truman G. Madsen

These devotional reflections from the heart of Truman Madsen can help bring you face to face with yourself as you prepare to meet Christ at the sacrament table each week. Each page explores a separate idea pertaining to the sacrament and gives insights into the events surrounding the Last Supper, the Atonement, and the Crucifixion.

There is a feast awaiting the honest guest who accepts the Lord's invitation to bring to the altar a "broken heart and a contrite spirit." Alma promises it will "begin to be delicious" (Alma 32:28) and that "ye shall feast upon this fruit even until ye are filled" (Alma 32:42). Brother Madsen helps us to access these blessings.

Find new meaning in the sacrament and new resolve as you reflect upon and participate in this sacred ordinance.

Genres: Religion, Nonfiction, Lds

176 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 2, 2015

About the author

Truman Grant Madsen was an American professor of religion and philosophy at Brigham Young University (BYU) and director of the Brigham Young University Jerusalem Center for Near Eastern Studies. He was a prolific author, a recognized authority on Joseph Smith Jr., and a popular lecturer among Latter-day Saints. At one point, Madsen was an instructor at the LDS Institute of Religion in Berkeley, California.

Reviews

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a beautifully written book of devotionals about the sacrament! Covering topics such as the Atonement, the Sabbath, fasting, and prayers, this book eloquently reminds the reader of Gospel blessings that are available to each of us. I read this slowly, usually just a page or two daily, in order to fully ponder these important reflections. This was one of Truman Madsen's last works and you can really feel his great care for matters of sacred import.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Without a doubt, this is one of the most important books I have read this year. I highlighted so much of it to revisit and study further. If you are on a path to draw closer to your Savior, this book will gently lead you closer to that goal. The format (one page meditations) is conducive to reading and reflecting on one simple aspect of the sacrament.

[Verona · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a profound book! Truman Madsen's beautiful language and powerful testimony of the Savior are reason enough to read this book. I loved every word. I pondered a lot as I took my time to read these beautiful concepts about the sacrament and of the Savior's love for me and all people. I am thankful for the things I felt and learned as I let these passages come into my heart and mind. Reading it again is my goal.

[Jeff Birk · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a collection of short essays Truman Madsen wrote shortly before his death. I’ve been a huge fan of his for many years. He takes the topic of the sacrament and breaks it down into a few sub topics which help to dive a lot deeper (at least deeper than I ever have) into understanding how all-encompassing and critical the sacrament really is. Each essay ties back in some way to gaining more knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of the sacramental ordinance, practice, and power. I tagged a lot of this book for future reference. Beautiful book.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

These short, one page, devotional readings have been a lovely way to prepare for the sacrament each week. Much of my copy is underlined with book darts marking passages to review and ponder again.

4 1/2 stars

[Kimberlee Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Made me think on a lot of the sacrament. Put a lot of things in perspective.

[David Barney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short wonderful insights regarding the sacrament and how it plays an important part in our lives.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Partaking of the sacrament is a very important part of worship in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It's a time of reflection and re-commitment to the Savior and his gospel. The short sections of this book are wonderful for helping to guide one's pondering. Divided up into sections such as The Atonement, The Prayers, Sabbath, Fasting, Emblems, Effects and Influences the book looks at many of the different aspects of the Savior's life and the importance of the ordinance of the sacrament. I found this to be a wonderfully inspiring book full of great doctrines and events to think about. The stories and experiences shared by the author do a really nice job of highlighting ways to make the sacrament a more meaningful experience, allowing the reader to connect on a deeper level to Heavenly Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ.

[Anita · Rating 3 out of 5]

This compilation of 2 minute essays about the sacrament has gems--Sacrament Gems--for all you old timers, and others that are scratch-your-headers. I loved the ones using his personal experiences in the Holy Land, little stories, and historical moments. Some of the deep philosophical ones didn't grab me enough to spend the time to figure them out. It is not a good discussion book, but a great one to read one selection at a time for contemplation.

[Sally Linford · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a collection of short (1 page each) reflections on the sacrament (communion in the Mormon church) and atonement. All beautiful, thought-provoking, faith-inducing. I feel increased when I read from it.

[Linda · Rating 2 out of 5]

I finally finished it! Told myself to finish a book you start. Didn't really enjoy it, probably because most of the glorious nuggets in this book were over my head? There were some good ones though. Not putting this on my recommended reading list...

[Tressa (Wishful Endings)]

Perfect resource for Sundays. Review to come.

[Jacob Dalley · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I smart guy. This book is a unique book, in that it contains Truman G. Madison's notes. It provides a glimpse into the mind of Truman. I wish I was as smart as him.

[Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great collection of thoughts on all aspects of the atonement and sacrament which provide many opportunities to ponder.

[Curt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a big Fan of Truman G. Madsen.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book!

This is the adult version of a Quiet Book for during the Sacrament. Short, inspired and inspiring essays and stories to help keep your mind focussed where it needs to be: on the Savior. Perfect length to read 1-3 during the passing of the sacrament.