Religious - Conference Thoughts - Part 2

From the talks that I listened to, I noticed a very distinct but subtle difference from past conferences. I also noticed a difference in the tone from the older Apostles to the newer ones. For many years, the church has been criticized for emphasizing works more than grace. There have certainly been enough talks in conference to support this idea. However, I think that it was really a difference in nomenclature. While LDS believe that Christ is the Savior, saving us from sin and death, we also know that we should work on becoming more like our Savior and that our heavenly reward will be based on what we work for. While Christ opened the door or built the bridge, it is up to us to cross it and learn. Many other denominations stop at salvation from Hell, and sometimes LDS folk forget that part. Though we should never forget that as hard as we work, our reward will be given because of the grace and mercy of our Saviour.

I heard several talks this time that seemed to alude to this fact. While some of the old guard talks (not referring to specific people, but to attitudes expressed) seem to leave no room for personal mistakes and growth. Many of the talks one hears now help people to realize that they can accomplish anything with the Lord and that when mistakes are made, there is a way back.

I particularly liked Pres. Uctdorf's and Pres. Eyrings talks from the general sessions. (I haven't listened or read the priesthood session yet. I was getting ready to have family over for dinner.) While they talked about obedience, they also acknowledged the love of God and how it helps us to overcome things.

While we are on the topic of the First Presidency, Pres. Monson's talk was exceptionally brilliant. I think it is the most underrated talk of the conference. It is strikingly significant because it focused on the second greatest commandment, to love our neighbor. As prophet he could have counselled us to improve aspects of our lives and continue to better ourselves. In a way he did, but specifically he taught us to stop thinking of ourselves and to think more about those around us. We must remember that the two commandments on which all of the other "hang" is to love God and love our neighbor. With such wonderful talks this conference, I hope that this one is the one that is most remembered. I think it could have the most profound effect on everyone.