Precious

Every now and then I hear a direct quote of or an allusion to Scripture in the Eucharistic liturgy of the Book of Common Prayer. My favorite one is the word precious in the post-communion prayer. 1 Peter 1:18 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, 19 but with the PRECIOUS blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. The Prayer after Communion from the BCP: Almighty and everliving God, we thank you for feeding us with the spiritual food of the most PRECIOUS Body and Blood of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; and for assuring us in these holy mysteries that we are living members of the Body of your Son, and heirs of your eternal kingdom. And now, Father, send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of Christ our Lord. To him, to you, and to the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.