Reaction to April 2018 Conference

This last weekend was the 188th annual General Conference.  Like many others, I was uplifted and amazed, energized and inspired.  When it was through I said to my husband, "This is what I've been waiting for!"  I'm not even completely sure what I meant, but I felt quickened and thoroughly satisfied through the Spirit, the messages, the announcements, and the call to living closer to the Spirit, closer to our Lord and Savior.

Favorite talks:  Elder De Feo and President Nelson both on Sunday morning!  We'll be discussing those for sure!

The solemn assembly was special.  I started crying during the opening hymn, and was sensitive throughout - it was all so SPECIAL.  I wanted to shout "Hosanna!"  I found myself drawn towards the screen, wanting to reach into it.  I remember saying, "This is what I need."  I love general conference anyway, but I was so happy to be able to participate.  The Spirit was so strong, so moving, so delicious, so wonderful and ... familiar.  I believe the Savior Himself was with us.

Priesthood session was so powerful.  When the prophet had all the Priesthood holders arise, it was electric.  I almost feel like they were taking a "Before" picture - all of these men and young men were consciously choosing to stand with the Prophet.  I think that is significant!  Almost a marshaling of the forces.  I believe that this was a testimony - perhaps of who is on the Lord's side.  Something wonderful is coming.  I was also reminded of Isaiah 52 and in searching found: Doctrine & Covenants 113

7 Questions by Elias Higbee: What is meant by the command in Isaiah, 52d chapter, 1st verse, which saith: Put on thy strength, O Zion—and what people had Isaiah reference to?
8 He had reference to those whom God should call in the last days, who should hold the power of priesthood to bring again Zion, and the redemption of Israel; and TO PUT ON HER STRENGTH IS TO PUT ON THE AUTHORITY OF THE PRIESTHOOD, which she, Zion, has a right to by lineage; also to return to that power which she had lost

My 1yo even stopped playing to watch the closing song. I think he felt the power too.

Sunday morning session, Easter, the choir was spectacular in their song choices.  I noticed (the second time I listened) they changed a word in the 2nd verse of Christ the Lord Is Risen Today - instead of "Love's redeeming work is done," they sang, "Christ's redeeming work is done."  That was a lovely touch.  I loved all the talks, and the prophet's most of all.  I took the most notes from his words.  He confirmed things the Spirit has been teaching me and he inspired me.

After the changes to elders' quorum and home teaching, I felt a little amused because I had the thought that we had been given an upgrade.  I know I am not the only one.  But it felt that revolutionary.  Everything made sense as to preparing to be more of a Zion people.  Of COURSE the high priests should meet with the elders!  This will improve camaraderie, shepherding, etc. etc.  Of COURSE we need to retire visiting teaching and home teaching for ministering.  It is like they took the best of home teaching (involving the youth, etc.) and the best of visiting teaching (service more important than message, etc.) and combined them into something better.

The "good ship Zion" sails on, and I desire to be a part of it.

I plan to continue with some October 2017 discussion posts still.  I have a few outlined that I haven't written up into posts yet.