BYU–Hawaii Devotionals & Speeches

Jenny Oaks Baker
Concert Violinist, Recording Artist and Founder of the SoulFill Music Foundation
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Jenny Oaks Baker teaches that trusting the Lord with life’s uncertainties allows Him to make more of a person’s life than could ever be imagined alone.

Drawing from personal experiences with grief, unexpected career changes, miracles, and prayers that were answered differently than expected, she shows how faith in Jesus Christ brings strength, direction, and hope through life’s challenges. She encourages students to seek guidance through the Holy Ghost, remain obedient, and trust the Lord to guide their next steps, even when the path ahead is unclear.

“You don’t have to know beforehand. You just need to trust the One who does.”
— Jenny Oaks Baker

Jenny Oaks Baker is a concert violinist, recording artist, and founder of the SoulFill Music Foundation. A Grammy Award-nominated musician, she shares her love for the gospel of Jesus Christ through music and produces sacred concert experiences, including Joy to the World! A Sacred Celebration and The Redeemer: Music on the Life of Jesus the Christ.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts. https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/byuhawaii

#BYUHawaii #BYUH #BYUHDevotional #JennyOaksBaker #FaithInJesusChrist #TrustInTheLord #PersonalRevelation

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Alice Yiu
Head of Advocacy and Outreach
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Alice Yiu explores how everyday decisions and major life choices shape who we become. Drawing from her career in sustainable transportation, family experiences, and faith, she explains the importance of looking beyond immediate benefits to recognize what truly matters in the long run. She encourages students to seek Heavenly Father’s perspective, make sacrifices for what lasts, and trust His guidance through difficult decisions.

“Look past what's easy to count, and see what really matters.” — Alice Yiu

Alice Yiu works in advocacy and outreach and has a professional background in sustainable transportation research and development. Her work has involved collaborating with countries, investors, and industry leaders to improve transportation systems.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaii #BYUHDevotional #BYUH #Faith #EternalPerspective #Discipleship #SeasiderLife

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Wildford Wu
Regional Welfare and Self-Reliance Manager, Asia Area
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Wilford Wu teaches that Heavenly Father defines our eternal identity while Jesus Christ refines us into who we can become. Through personal experiences with education, career decisions, and revelation, he explains how the Lord can use unexpected changes and sacrifices to shape our purpose. He encourages students to think critically, pray precisely, act faithfully, and trust the Savior’s guidance even when the next step is unclear.

“Think critically. Pray precisely. Act faithfully.”
— Wilford Wu

Wilford Wu serves as the Regional Welfare and Self-Reliance Manager for the Asia Area. Before joining the Church’s workforce, he built a career in international business development, including experiences with The Ritz-Carlton and The Walt Disney Company. He shares lessons from his professional and spiritual journey about trusting the Lord and becoming more like Jesus Christ.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaii #BYUHDevotional #BYUH #JesusChrist #PersonalRevelation #Faith #SelfReliance #SpiritualGrowth #SeasiderLife

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell
Presiding Bishop of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotiona

At devotional, Bishop W. Christopher Waddell teaches that caring for those in need is a divinely appointed responsibility of the Church and an essential part of following Jesus Christ. Drawing from global humanitarian efforts and experiences responding to disasters in Türkiye, Syria, and Lahaina, he shows how Church resources and individual acts of service help relieve suffering and bless communities around the world. He encourages students to follow the Savior’s example by recognizing opportunities to serve, using their talents, and remembering that even small acts of kindness can make a difference.

“The most important thing I invite you to do is to pray and ask God how he can use you, and then for you to act on the promptings you receive.”
— Bishop W. Christopher Waddell

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell serves as the Presiding Bishop of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In this role, he helps oversee the Church’s temporal affairs, including humanitarian and welfare efforts, Church finances, facilities, and resources that support the Church’s divinely appointed responsibilities.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaii #BYUH #BYUHDevotional

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Jaime Lopez
Facilities Management Director
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Jaime Lopez teaches that no one is meant to face life’s challenges alone and that God places people in each other’s lives to support, strengthen, and create opportunities for one another.

Drawing from military service, family experiences, and the example of the Savior, he shows how faith, preparation, and standing beside others can help create a path toward Jesus Christ. He reminds students that Jesus Christ is the ultimate Breacher, opening the way through His Atonement and inviting each person to help others find that path.

“Sin, sorrow, weakness, injustice, pain, and ultimately death are not obstacles that we can simply work hard enough to overcome. We needed someone who could go before us and create a way where there was no way. Jesus Christ did that for us.”

— Jaime Lopez

Jaime Lopez serves as the Facilities Management Director at Brigham Young University–Hawaii. Before joining BYU–Hawaii, he served 26 years in the United States military, including service with a Security Force Assistance Brigade in Afghanistan. His experiences in military service, family life, and supporting a son with special needs have shaped his perspective on faith, service, and the importance of helping others create a path forward.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaii #BYUH #BYUHDevotional #Devotional #JesusChrist #Faith #Service #Ministering #Discipleship #LatterDaySaints

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Luke J. Nichols
Host of Outdoor Boys YouTube Channel and Young Men Advisory Council Member
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Luke J. Nichols teaches that evidence of God’s existence can be found through the testimonies and experiences of countless witnesses. Drawing from experiences as a missionary and criminal defense attorney, he shares personal accounts of miracles, divine guidance, and feeling God’s love for people facing serious challenges. He reminds students that Jesus Christ is the Savior, that no one is beyond the reach of His love and Atonement, and that each person can seek a personal witness of God and the truth of the scriptures.

“The evidence exists: God lives, Jesus is our Savior and the scriptures are true. The witnesses are many and each of you can pray to God to know the truth for yourselves.”
— Luke J. Nichols

Luke J. Nichols is the host of the Outdoor Boys YouTube Channel and a member of the Young Men Advisory Council. Before creating YouTube videos, he worked as a criminal defense attorney for 11 years, representing approximately 2,000 people during his legal career. His experiences in law, missionary service, and family life have shaped his testimony of God, Jesus Christ, and the scriptures.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaii #BYUH #BYUHDevotional #Devotional #IAmAWitness #JesusChrist #Faith #Testimony #Scriptures #LatterDaySaints #OutdoorBoys #LukeNichols

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Abraham Manutai
Food Services Director
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

At devotional, Abraham Manutai teaches that God can guide lives in unexpected ways as individuals follow Him and discover their purpose along the way. Drawing from his journey through education, career changes, family, and Church service, he shares how small acts of service and faithful choices can change lives and prepare individuals to lead. He reminds students that the opportunity to live and lead begins now, through their homes, communities, professions, and callings.

“The opportunity to live and lead is right here before you. Don’t wait until you graduate or get settled into your profession to start living and leading.”
— Abraham Manutai

Abraham Manutai was raised in Kaimukī and graduated from Moanalua High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University–Hawaiʻi in 2011 and serves as the Food Services Director. He is married to Larie Kuulei Langi Manutai, and they are proud parents of their son, Alapati.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts. https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/byuhawaii

#BYUHawaii #BYUH #BYUHDevotional #Devotional #LiveAndLead #JesusChrist #Discipleship #Service #Purpose #LatterDaySaints

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Tialei Scanlan
Associate Professor
Faculty of Business & Government
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

At devotional, Tialei Scanlan teaches that choosing the Lord again and again brings strength, peace, and lasting blessings through life’s challenges. Drawing from experiences with faith, service, education, and family, she shares four ways to choose the Lord: through life’s challenges, feelings of inadequacy, lifelong learning, and personal priorities. She reminds students that consistent efforts to follow the Savior, serve others, continue learning, and make time for spiritual growth can strengthen faith and increase personal capabilities.

“I know that as you choose the Lord again, and again you will be blessed. Your path will be guided, and you will be able to accomplish things that you could have never accomplished on your own.”
— Tialei Scanlan

Born in Guam and raised in Orem, Utah, and Laie, Hawaii, Tialei Scanlan holds an MBA from the Shidler College of Business and a Ph.D. in Learning Design & Technology from the College of Education at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. She has taught at BYU–Hawaii for over eight years and lives with her husband and their four children.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaii #BYUH #BYUHDevotional #Devotional #ChooseTheLord #JesusChrist #Faith #Discipleship #LatterDaySaints

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

President John S. K. Kauwe III
University President
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Sister Monica S. Kauwe
First Lady
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

President John S. K. Kauwe III and Sister Monica S. Kauwe share messages of faith, healing, and peace through prayer, reminding students that they are children of God and that His plan of happiness for them is real. They emphasize the blessings of being children of the covenant and disciples of Jesus Christ, encouraging students to show Christlike love, remain grateful, and trust in the Savior’s guidance and comfort. They remind BYU–Hawaii students to recognize the blessings surrounding them and move forward with faith and gratitude.

“You are a Child of God. The plan of happiness that He prepared for you is real. Our Savior, Jesus Christ, and His Atonement are central to that plan and to your salvation and eternal happiness.” - Sister Monica S. Kauwe

President John S. K. Kauwe III and Sister Monica S. Kauwe serve as the University President and First Lady of Brigham Young University–Hawaii. President Kauwe specializes in Alzheimer’s disease genetic research and serves as the 11th president of BYU–Hawaii, where he has served as university president for six years. President and Sister Kauwe are the parents of five children. Their oldest son, Sai, is currently serving a full-time mission in Hamilton, New Zealand.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaiiDevotional #SpiritualGrowth #Discipleship

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Juan Escalante
Assistant Professor and EIL Director
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Juan Escalante teaches that conversion is a lifelong journey of coming unto Jesus Christ through faith, patience, and daily discipleship. Drawing from his personal conversion story, family trials, and experiences with grief and growth, he emphasizes that discipleship is not about perfection but about continually turning to the Savior. He invites listeners to trust Christ's grace, embrace steady spiritual progression, and find strength in knowing that the Savior walks with them through every challenge.

“Come unto Him as you are. Walk with Him. Be patient as He changes you. Trust Him enough to keep going.” - Juan Escalante

Juan Escalante is an assistant professor and director of the English and an International Language (EIL) at BYU–Hawaii. He began his journey at BYU–Hawaii as a student, earning a bachelor’s degree in TESOL Education in 2015, then completed a master’s in TESOL at BYU in 2018, where he conducted eye-tracking research on second language reading behaviors during testing. He later returned to BYU–Hawaii as visiting faculty and worked as a skill area supervisor at BYU’s English Language Center, teaching ESL and coordinating community programs. His experience also includes teaching at Utah Valley University, with research focused on technology-enhanced language learning, teacher training, and language assessment. He and his wife, Kathryn, are the parents of two young daughters.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.
#BYUHawaiiDevotional #Discipleship #ComeUntoHim #SpiritualGrowth #WalkWithHim

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Verna Tukuafu
International Area Manager - Pacific Area, BYU–Pathway Worldwide
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Verna Tukuafu teaches that becoming who God intends us to be requires faith, resilience, and trust in Jesus Christ through every season of life. Drawing from her personal experiences, she emphasizes that challenges, loss, service, and education can all become opportunities for growth when viewed through the Savior’s perspective. She invites listeners to trust the Lord’s timing, remain faithful in difficult circumstances, and allow Him to shape them into disciples prepared for greater purpose and joy.

“Through Jesus Christ, we really can do hard things. Not because we are strong on our own. But because He strengthens us.” - Verna Tukuafu

Verna Tukuafu currently serves as Area Manager for BYU–Pathway Worldwide in the Pacific Area. Born in Kahuku, Hawaiʻi, and raised in Tonga, she is a graduate of Brigham Young University–Hawaii and earned a master’s degree in business administration. Verna and her late husband, Sione, raised three children, and she continues to inspire others through her leadership, faith, and lifelong commitment to education and discipleship.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaiiDevotional #FaithInChrist #SpiritualGrowth #TrustInTheLord #BecomingThroughChrist

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

James R. Rasband
Commissioner of the Church Educational System
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Elder James R. Rasband teaches that truth, whether gained through education or the gospel, leads to greater freedom, clarity, and purposeful living. He emphasizes that commandments are given as loving guidance rather than restrictions, and testifies that while truth makes individuals free, Jesus Christ ultimately makes them “free indeed” through His Atonement.

"We need the truth because the truth makes us free. And to know the truth, we need the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost." - Elder James R. Rasband

Elder James R. Rasband was sustained as a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 6, 2019. He served for three years as a counselor in the Asia North Area Presidency, three years as an Assistant Executive Director in the Temple Department and was recently appointed Commissioner of the Church’s Educational System.

#BYUHawaiiDevotional #PerfectBrightnessOfHope #FaithInChrist #SpiritualGrowth #WalkwithChrist

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Stephanie Robertson
Library Director and Assistant Professor at BYU–Hawaii
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Stephanie Robertson teaches that feeling overwhelmed is a shared part of life, and that growth comes not from removing every burden, but from learning how to move forward with faith in Jesus Christ. She emphasizes that progress often happens in small, faithful steps, and that hope develops as we continue turning to the Savior, even in uncertain seasons. She invites students to recognize that they are never alone, and that angels, both seen and unseen, are placed in their lives to strengthen and support them.

“The goal is not to eliminate feelings of being overwhelmed from our lives. The goal is to learn how to walk through it with the Savior.” – Stephanie Robertson

Stephanie Robertson is the library director at the Joseph F. Smith Library and an assistant professor at Brigham Young University–Hawaii. She holds a master’s degree in English with an emphasis in composition and rhetoric and a second master’s degree in library and information science with an emphasis in academic librarianship, both from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. She has taught at BYU–Hawaii since 2008 and continues to support students through teaching, research, and library leadership.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaiiDevotional #PerfectBrightnessOfHope #FaithInChrist #SpiritualGrowth #WalkwithChrist

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Asa Smibert
Field Associate Administrator (Seminaries and Institutes of Religion)
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Asa Smibert teaches about the story of the widow of Zarephath and how faith in God provides strength during difficult times. The message emphasizes trusting the Lord, using agency righteously, serving others, and remaining faithful even when life feels uncertain or challenging. He invites listeners to continue following gospel principles, develop holy habits, and allow God to shape their lives through trials and discipleship.

"When you feel this spiritual stretch, please trust that while God is asking more of you, He is doing so because He is not yet finished lifting you." – Asa Smibert

Asa Smibert is a University of Queensland alumnus, having earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in education and a Master of Leadership with a focus on strategy and innovation. He once aspired to become a heart surgeon, but he felt impressed in his mission to work on hearts in a different way by becoming a teacher. He and his wife, Karen, are the parents of four sons, and together they share a love for the gospel of Jesus Christ and a commitment to helping others experience spiritual transformation.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts. https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/byuhawaiidevotional

#BYUHawaiiDevotional #Refinersfire #FaithInChrist #SpiritualGrowth #facingchallenges

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Kala Kau
Student Life Vice
President Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Kala Kau teaches that life is meant to be experienced as a classroom rather than a courtroom, where growth comes through learning, reflection, and turning to Jesus Christ instead of being defined by mistakes or judgment. He emphasizes that each stage of life offers lessons that shape who we are becoming, and that students carry their own devotional messages through the experiences they live every day.

“Life is not meant to be a courtroom where we feel judged or defined by our mistakes. Jesus Christ has already paid the price, so we do not need to dwell on regrets or disappointments.” - Kala Kau

Kala Kau is the Student Life Vice President at Brigham Young University–Hawaii, joining the university in 2020 after serving in multiple student affairs leadership roles at Brigham Young University, including director of student wellness and associate dean of students. His work focuses on helping students pursue their best selves through Christ-centered education, wellness, and leadership. He holds graduate and undergraduate degrees from Seattle University and BYU and served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Hong Kong.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaiiDevotional #LifeAsAClassroom #FaithInChrist #SpiritualGrowth #Learn

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Sister Connie Haws
Acting First Lady
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

Connie Haws teaches that Heavenly Father’s plan of salvation is the “ultimate road map,” providing clear direction, purpose, and assurance through life’s uncertainties, with Jesus Christ as the perfect guide who leads safely through storms and back to God. R. Kelly Haws builds on this foundation by emphasizing that even small, consistent efforts to draw closer to Jesus Christ—like reaching to touch His garment—bring healing, strength, and renewed hope, making a life centered on “more Jesus” the key to both daily peace and eternal progress.

“Jesus Christ is the perfect way back to Heavenly Father. He is the perfect guide. And He has made the way possible because of His personal, infinite atonement.” - Sister Connie Haws

Connie Haws brings a background of faith, resilience, and hard work. She earned a cosmetology degree and successfully owned and operated her own business for eight years. Raised in a family of all girls, she developed a love for the outdoors through fishing and hunting adventures with her father. She and R. Kelly Haws were married in the Salt Lake Temple and are the parents of three children, with their youngest currently studying at Brigham Young University–Hawaii.

BYU–Hawaii devotionals are now available wherever you listen to podcasts.

#BYUHawaiiDevotional #Atonement #LightTheWayHome #ThroughTheStorm #GuidedByFaith

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

President R. Kelly Haws
Acting University President
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional

R. Kelly Haws teaches that drawing closer to Jesus Christ brings healing, peace, and strength in every season of life. Through the example of the woman who touched the Savior’s garment, he shows that even one small act of faith can make us whole. R. Kelly Haws invites listeners to seek more Jesus by remembering His name, reaching for Him daily, and making Him the first and last thought in their lives.

“... As we walk with Him, we will have renewed strength, refreshed hope, and reinvigorated confidence.” - President R. Kelly Haws

R. Kelly Haws brings a lifetime of leadership, global experience, and dedication to religious education. Raised in Utah, he and Sister Haws have spent significant time in Laie and Washington, D.C., with experiences shaped by Church service, education, and travel to more than 50 countries. For over three decades, President Haws has served in Seminaries and Institutes of Religion and the Church Educational System, helping guide religious education worldwide.

#BYUHDevotional #JesusChrist #ComeUntoChrist #FaithInChrist #SeekMoreJesus #HeLives

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Jeff Christensen
Associate Professor, Faculty of Business & Government; Director, Center for Hospitality & Tourism
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (April 7, 2026)

Jeff Christensen teaches that Jesus Christ is the “perfect A,” illustrating that lives come into harmony only when aligned with Him through His Atonement. He shows that the Savior restores what is out of tune, aligns desires with God’s will, and magnifies even small, willing efforts. Jeff Christensen invites listeners to realign their lives with Christ through repentance, forgiveness, and intentional daily action.

“When we place what little we have into the Savior’s hands, our efforts, our talents, our willingness to serve Him are amplified.” — Jeff Christensen

Jeff Christensen is an Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Hospitality & Tourism Management Studies at BYU–Hawaii. He spent 24 years in global hospitality leadership and has traveled to 108 countries, using his experiences to teach how travel can foster understanding, service, and positive change. He and his wife Debbie are parents of three and strive to live Christlike values in their work and daily life.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Jeff Christensen
Associate Professor & Director of the Center for Hospitality & Tourism Management Studies
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (April 7, 2026)

Jeff Christensen teaches that Jesus Christ is the “perfect A,” illustrating that lives come into harmony only when aligned with Him through His Atonement. He shows that the Savior restores what is out of tune, aligns desires with God’s will, and magnifies even small, willing efforts. Jeff Christensen invites listeners to realign their lives with Christ through repentance, forgiveness, and intentional daily action.

“When we place what little we have into the Savior’s hands, our efforts, our talents, our willingness to serve Him are amplified.” — Jeff Christensen

Jeff Christensen is an Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Hospitality & Tourism Management Studies at BYU–Hawaii. He spent 24 years in global hospitality leadership and has traveled to 108 countries, using his experiences to teach how travel can foster understanding, service, and positive change. He and his wife Debbie are parents of three and strive to live Christlike values in their work and daily life.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.

Daniel Sharp
Professor of Faculty of Culture, Language & Perfoming Arts
Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (March 24, 2026)

Daniel Sharp teaches that the Atonement of Jesus Christ serves as the central turning point of eternity by overcoming the effects of the Fall, ensuring resurrection, and offering all mankind a return to God’s presence. He explains that through the Atonement, Jesus Christ gains perfect empathy and authority to justly judge and succor humanity, having experienced all pain, temptation, and sin. He concludes that understanding the Atonement brings hope, inspires repentance, and enables lasting change through faith in Jesus Christ.

“We study the Atonement not merely as an intellectual exercise, but because understanding the Atonement, the progress and hope that an empathetic Savior provides, can give us hope to change. It can comfort us. It will heal us. Of that, I testify.” — Daniel Sharp

Daniel Sharp grew up in Canada, Thailand, and California. He joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at eighteen and served a mission in Campinas, Brazil. He is married to Carrie Rentz, and they have five sons and five grandchildren. Daniel earned a PhD in Religious Studies from Claremont Graduate University and has taught at BYU–Hawaii since 2011.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.

Visit https://byuh.edu/ to learn more.