Thoughts from church

I truly enjoy the ward that we attend. There is an amazing diversity in its membership. We have one of the wealthiest areas, the country club, and one of the poorest areas, in south Phoenix, within our boundaries. We are a culturally, spiritually, economically, ideologically diverse group of people... all seeking to understand the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I think that this diversity makes this an understanding and unpretentious ward. We are honestly seeking to help one another learn and develop spiritually. It probably wouldn't have been our first choice, had we been given one, but it is where we need to be. There are so many opportunities to serve and be served and so many people that can benefit from our testimony. I am now a ward missionary, there are hundreds of opportunities here, and I haven't felt this involved since my mission.
The services were good today. There was an emphasis placed on temple work and genealogy. This is an area that we have put a low priority on so it served as a wake up call. While no earth shattering comments or statements were made, the quiet reassurance of some familiar doctrine was all that I needed to feel compelled to improve.
I am now reading the current First Presidency message concerning role of mothers and fathers in families. This is a very critical and pertinent subject, given the current trends in our society. President Faust was very clear with his message. A child should be raised and nourished by both a mother and a father who are equally Yoked and led by the priesthood. This stands opposed to current notions of latch key kids, single parent families, and irresponsibility. I am so grateful that we have inspired leaders to give us guidance and reassurance during such turbulent times.