I have recently been watching a television show, Merlin, which has come out the of the UK.  One of the things that stuck out to me was their use of magic.  Merlin the young sorcerer is learning to use his magical powers and is counselled to use it for the benefit of others.  I am not going to discuss how magic is a counterfeit of the priesthood, as there are numerous examples of this found within the scriptures.

I would like to share my thoughts on the similarity of how it seems to be administered at the moment.  One element that stuck out to me was in one episode where Merlin was trying to learn a new spell.  He was trying to say the correct combination of words with the correct stressing upon the words too.  How frequently when a blessing is given to someone by the power of the priesthood either the priesthood holder or the one receiving the blessing is looking for the right combination of words said in combination with great eloquence.  This is not needed as long as those giving the blessing are worthy to minister in the ordinances of the gospel. 

Elde Oaks in the April 2010 general conference said this about the blessing portion of an ordinace, "Another part of a priesthood blessing is the words of blessing spoken by the elder after he seals the anointing. These words can be very important, but their content is not essential and they are not recorded on the records of the Church. In some priesthood blessings—like a patriarchal blessing—the words spoken are the essence of the blessing. But in a healing blessing it is the other parts of the blessing—the anointing, the sealing, faith, and the will of the Lord—that are the essential elements."

I have had several experiences giving blessings and I will share a few here.  On my mission my companion and I went to give a non-member a blessing in the hospital, he was a friend of member and the member had requested the blessing.  As is the custom in England the missionaries were called upon to give that blessing.  I anointed the brother and my companion sealed the blessing.  Upon sealing the blessing he closed it in the name of Jesus Christ.  This is perfectly acceptable to do. 

On the other side, my mother in law has been experiencing some distress as one of her daughter's was moving to another continent.  Through the request of my wife I was petitioned to give that blessing rather than deferring it to her home teacher.  I had not prepared for this blessing, I also had my own opinions on the matter, but I pushed those aside and performed that ordinance.  The words flowed out of my mouth, I did not have to think of what to say also I do not remember much of what I said at that time. 

The important thing to remember when participating in the priesthood ordinances is to be a worthy tool of the Lord and to not get in the way.  Some of this comes with experience, and participating in ordinances.  I am thankful that I am not graded on how well my blessing was said.  I am also thankful that the spirit accompanies those blessing and gives what is needed.

Tags: Priesthood Blessing Faith

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