The Sacrament Instruction

Jesus wanted to make sure the people had a chance to take the sacrament, but it had just been given to the people the previous day. I think there are a few reasons why the Savior had them take the sacrament that next day.

First, as has been mentioned, quite a few people labored through the night to be there with the Savior on this day. They had not had the experience of taking the sacrament the previous day, so I think maybe Jesus wanted them to have that opportunity.

The next reason, I think, is kind of important. I think the key is here:

"3 And it came to pass that he brake bread again and blessed it, and gave to the disciples to eat.

4 And when they had eaten he commanded them that they should break bread, and give unto the multitude.

5 And when they had given unto the multitude he also gave them wine to drink, and commanded them that they should give unto the multitude." (3 Nephi 20:3-5)

I have taken the sacrament most Sundays of my entire life, and the priests break the bread, then bless it, and then the deacons pass it to the congregation. Here, Jesus breaks the break and gives it to His disciples. When they had partaken of the bread, He told them to break bread and give it to the multitude. I think He was making sure they knew the proper way to perform the sacrament ordinance. He showed them, and then had them do what He had done.

Along every aspect of the gospel in our lives, we have been given training and instruction. That is, after all, what this life is about. We come here to earth, gain a body, and are taught line upon line, the principles we need to live by and the covenants we need to make. We have freedom to choose what we will do, but we are shown the way once we have the gospel. Jesus himself was the perfect example in all aspects of the gospel. If, when faced with decisions, we ask ourselves "What would Jesus do?", and then do it, we will be on the right path.

Ultimately, the point is that we are never left without help and instruction. Just as Christ taught His disciples how to administer the sacrament and then expected them to do it, we are given instruction and help along our way too. That may come in the form of family, or teachers, or friends. Maybe quorum or class members who help us to know our responsibilities, especially when we're new. At a minimum, we all have the ability to receive revelation and guidance from God regarding our sphere of responsibility. Hopefully we can fully use this guidance to know where we are going and what we should be doing.

I'm grateful to have this guidance, instruction, and direction. This life is difficult, but following the Savior and receiving exaltation with our families for eternity doesn't have to be.