Sharing remarks on understanding the Creator and understanding ourselves better, Anton Bowden delivered insights from his area of expertise at a BYU devotional this morning.

As a professor of engineering, Bowden has spent years studying the human body through an engineering lens. He centered his remarks on what this work has taught him about the Master Engineer, Heavenly Father.

From the microscopic to the macroscopic, from DNA to organ systems, from the beating heart to the healing of bone, our bodies testify of the wisdom, patience, creativity, mercy, and love of the Master Engineer.

Bowden taught that the body is a gift and one of the main purposes of coming to mortality.

Receiving a body is not just the opening formality of mortality. It is not just the container in which the real spiritual work happens. It is part of the work. It is part of the gift. It is part of the plan.

By studying the body, one can learn more than just how it works; they can also learn about the Master Engineer who created it and what is important to Him.

Bowden shared six lessons that hes learned about studying the body from a heavenly perspective.

Our bodies are gifts, designed by a Master Engineer, and bestowed upon us because He is our loving Heavenly Father. By studying how our bodies work, we can learn a bit more about Him.

Blindness is symbolic of the inability to perceive or the refusal to acknowledge the works of God.

Jennifer Brooks, professor of mathematics, shared a unique perspective at a BYU devotional this morning on what blindness means to her and how it is represented in the scriptures.

Brooks used her experience of becoming legally blind to highlight scriptural themes of blindness and the lessons they teach.

She focused her message on the biblical account of the blind man healed by the Savior, emphasizing the need for everyone to examine their own spiritual blindness.

For a blind man to receive his sight would immediately and dramatically change his life and would be a great miracle, undeniable to him, to those around him, and to all those who later heard the story, Brooks shared.

Because of her own blindness, scriptural stories of both temporal and spiritual blindness resonate with her in meaningful ways.

With each story, she invited the audience to reflect on a series of questions about their own spiritual vision.

The Savior went about healing physical ailments, but His greatest power is His ability to heal spiritually as well, Brooks taught.

She also shared her conversion to the gospel and the spiritual blindness she experiences throughout much of her adult life.

My vision has changed how I do some things, but it hasnt fundamentally changed what I do.

Comparing her physical blindness to her spiritual journey, Brooks testified that while Christ could one day restore her physical sight, the greater miracle has been the restoration of her spiritual vision.

BYU law professor Elysa Dishman spoke at a BYU Devotional this morning about the healing power of community and its role in the miracles of Jesus Christ.

Drawing from personal experience and scripture, Dishman taught that miracles often happen through communities centered on the Savior.

Dishman began by sharing her familys experience navigating her daughters chronic health condition. During a visualization exercise at a workshop, she found herself mentally returning to the south campus trail overlooking the Botany Duck Pond.

Throughout her daughters healing journey, Dishman said community became an important source of strength and restoration.

Restoration whether of the gospel or of a person can be painful and challenging, but also glorious and miraculous, she said. And community is woven through every moment of that journey.

She centered her remarks on three ways community is reflected in Christs healing miracles.

My prayer is that wherever you are on your healing journey, the Spirit will whisper to you that you are a beloved child of Heavenly Parents and that you are a valued member of this community, Dishamn said.

She referenced the man at the pool of Bethesda, who had suffered for 38 years and could not reach the healing waters on his own. After Christ healed him and told him to take up thy bed, and walk, the man was no longer isolated from those around him, as he could now go join the community in the water.

A community that isolates its vulnerable members is itself in need of healing, Dishman said.

She recounted the story of Jairus, whose daughter was dying. After Jairus sought out Jesus, he learned his daughter had already died before the Savior arrived. Christ encouraged him to continue having faith before raising the young girl from the dead.

We can bring our friends to Jesus by inviting them to spiritual experiences, she said. We can bring Jesus to our friends by sharing our testimonies, listening compassionately and offering kindness.

These miracles are not just about bread and fish. They are about what becomes possible in a community gathered around the Savior, she said. They are miracles of the multitude.

Dishman closed by encouraging students to take full advantage of the BYU community, connection and belonging.

President C. Shane Reese, along with D. Michael Lindsay of Taylor University, addressed the campus community in a panel discussion during today's forum on faith in higher education.

The forum began by showing a clip from the series "Higher Ed: The Power of Faith-Inspired Learning," which featured both BYU and Taylor University. The video highlighted both the challenges facing faith-based universities and the value they bring to students and the broader community.

Answering questions in the panel, both presidents agreed that faith and learning complement one another and can build environments of joy and happiness.

Faith and scholarship are mutually reinforcing principles. Study does truly amplify faith, revelation does truly lead to deeper understanding. With these guiding principles, we are able to discuss and ask and answer questions that wouldn't be possible in other university settings, President Reese said.

By fostering humility, caring for one's neighbor, and following Jesus Christ, institutions such as BYU and Taylor University are able to answer the deeper and more difficult questions facing students of this rising generation.

"We aspire to be as Christ-centered and student-focused as we possibly can," President Lindsay shared. "That is the key to building an educational model that recruits students and draws them in."

Quoting Elder D. Todd Christofferson, President Reese shared, "We don't pursue [education] for our own personal gratification. We pursue education because we believe it is a means by which we can bless God's children."

Watch the full panel discussion on BYUtv.org

Testifying of the Savior and His love, Arlene Sewell, portfolio director of artificial intelligence, offered insights to the BYU community about light and the role it plays in a changing world.

Her remarks focused on three aspects of light: how to receive it, how to recognize it and how to share it with others.

Drawing on her experiences working at BYU and BYU-Hawaii, Sewell shared that one of the greatest lessons she learned is that spiritual light and intellectual learning do not compete but strengthen one another.

We live in a time of incredible growth and innovation, especially in areas like artificial intelligence, Sewell said. But no matter how much the world advances, one thing remains constant: the divine light of Jesus Christ.

Sewell also shared a spiritual experience of praying about where she fits within her organization during a time of change. Through prayer and personal revelation, she was eventually led to what she described as her dream job serving as chief information officer at BYU-Hawaii.

As I stepped into that role, I began to learn something deeper, not just about leadership, but about what it means to lead with light, she said. To see people as the Savior sees them, and to serve in a way that reflects His love.

Throughout the devotional, Sewell reflected on individuals and places that brought light into her life and strengthened her testimony.

She also shared an analogy about a flashlight, explaining that when batteries die, people replace the batteries rather than throw the flashlight away. Likewise, people often need attention, acceptance, compassion or direction to help their light shine again.

Addressing her work in artificial intelligence, Sewell said that while technology can process information and continue to grow, it cannot replace divine light or guide people the way the Savior can.

Sewell shared a video about temples being built around the world and how, like temples, each person has their own light to share with the world.

Her remarks concluded with an invitation for students to share their light with others and remember their divine identity.

In a world filled with artificial light, never forget, you carry divine light. It is needed, and it was meant to shine at this time.

Brian Radford, the information technology vice president and CES CIO, addressed the campus community in a devotional at Brigham Young University this morning.

He began by reflecting on recent graduation ceremonies and the accomplishments of BYU students, emphasizing the lasting impact of the role students play in the world. Referring to the Churchs commitment to education, he reminded listeners, You are part of something bigger than we often realize, and at an unprecedented time in the world and in the Church.

Drawing on President Spencer W. Kimballs The Second Century of Brigham Young University address and a recent devotional from President Dallin H. Oaks, Radford centered his remarks on a key question: What are you becoming at BYU?

Radford then invited students to act on that question in two specific ways:

Radford emphasized principled distinctiveness, or standing apart when needed in a world that often encourages conformity. Referencing Daniel the biblical prophet, who purposed in his heart to remain faithful, he taught the importance of deciding in advance how to act in moments of pressure. 

Drawing from his background in technology, Radford addressed the rise of artificial intelligence. While those tools can enhance learning, he warned they may also make it easier to blur truth, to cut corners, or avoid growth. He encouraged students to act with honesty and responsibility, emphasizing, When a tool is powerful, principles should come before pressure.

Radford taught that education is preparation for service, not just personal gain. Quoting President Russell M. Nelson, he said, The Lord loves effort because effort brings rewards that cant come without it.

Radford highlighted examples of individuals who remained true to their principles, including Marie Curie, whose work advanced medicine and science, and George Washington Carver, who improved the lives of farmers despite being born into slavery. He also pointed to modern examples from BYU students and faculty.

Radford taught that the Savior is the perfect example of serving others. Christs ministry was defined by His willingness to reach out to the one, to heal, to teach, and to uplift, and disciples are called to follow that example. He said BYU provides an environment where gospel principles and academic excellence work together to prepare students to bless others.

He testified that the Savior guides students through important decisions. Citing Doctrine and Covenants 88:67 and the story of Peter walking on water, Radford taught that Christ is always near and ready to help.

Radford concluded by inviting students to be intentional in using their education to serve others and staying rooted in their faith. BYU is a sacred place, he said, set apart to prepare disciples who will bless the world.

speeches.byu.edu.

Trevor Wilson, a senior associate athletic director, delivered a devotional on BYU campus today. He shared his gratitude for Easter, General Conference and the chance to give a devotional during this time.

His main message was directed to students and how they can make their BYU experience transformative, not transactional.

He began by defining a transformative experience as something that fundamentally makes us different, contrasting with a transactional experience, or something that lacks depth or emotional involvement. A combination of small transactional moments can lead to a transformative one.

As he reflected on countless transformative events during his career, Wilson pointed out that [BYU] Athletics is an exciting way to share our mission to the world.

Wilson attributed some of these missionary moments to Kalani Sitake, the head BYU Football Coach and a humble follower of Christ. Wilson recounted a particular instance where Sitake was able to defuse an angry rival crowd by inviting them to take selfies with him: a simple act that was an example to everyone who witnessed it.

Wilson also expounded on the story of the former BYU basketball player, Fousseyni Traore. Originally a Muslim basketball player from Mali, he chose BYU through prayer and faith. Some time later, with help from supportive peers, he was baptized as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His journey is an example to many as he continues his basketball career in France.

In addition to these, Wilson talked about scriptural examples of change. Joseph Smith did not simply read James 1:5, he pondered AND acted upon it. Just a seemingly inconsequential scripture led to one of the most transformative experiences ever: the Restoration of the gospel.

In the Book of Mormon, Laman and Lemuel remained in their negative mindset, focused on their poor circumstances. In contrast, Nephi trusted in Christ and was transformed in the process.

An integral part of the BYU experience is to learn by study and also by faith, as written in D&C 118. Your capacity to learn at BYU is enhanced when you bind yourself to Heavenly Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ, stated Wilson. The stronger you bind yourself to Them, the deeper your experience at BYU becomes.

He prescribed five ways to make the BYU experience more transformative:

Wilson shared that his life, from being newly married at BYU-Hawaii to his career at BYU now, has been transformed through his testimony of Jesus Christ. He testified of Gods plan and His desire to have His children to return to Him.

You are at BYU for a purpose and by divine design, reminded Wilson. He admonished students to invite Jesus Christ to make the miracle of BYU a transformative experience.

Becoming an everyday disciple of Jesus Christ begins with simple, daily decisions, taught Brother Sean R. Dixon, second counselor in the Young Men general presidency, during a BYU devotional Tuesday morning.

Brother Dixon testified of what it means to be a disciple and what discipleship can look like in everyday life.

He began by sharing his experience as a student at BYU. At his commencement, the address was given by James Q. Wilson, a professor of management at UCLA. He taught that the truly good deeds are the small, everyday actions of ordinary life These are the heroes of everyday life. May you join their ranks.

Although the message was not explicitly about religion, it left a lasting impression on Brother Dixon. He said it helped him realize that the greatest ambition in life should be to become an everyday disciple of Jesus Christ.

He emphasized that discipleship requires intentional effort to integrate the Savior and His gospel into every aspect of life. As stated in the Utah Area Plan, Disciples joyfully gather Israel one by one in Christ.

Jesus Christ taught the essence of discipleship through the two great commandments: to love God with all our heart and to love our neighbor as ourselves. These commandments guide the everyday choices disciples make as they look to the Savior in all they do.

Referring to President Dallin H. Oaks opening message as prophet, Brother Dixon highlighted the simple reminder that Jesus Christ is the way.

When individuals feel torn between the natural man and acting as disciples, remembering those five words can help guide decisions.

His way will rarely be the easy way, Brother Dixon said, but it will always lead to peace and joy.

He also cautioned listeners against discouragement that can come from perfectionism. Sometimes individuals mistake the negative voice of criticism for the voice of God. In reality, Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ guide individuals with patience and love as they grow.

Discipleship is more than just obeying the commandments and loving others, Brother Dixon said. It is the condition of the heart that leads us to want to do those things.

He shared two simple practices that help develop and maintain this soft heart, 1) taking a daily morning walk with God through prayer and scripture study, and 2) worshipping regularly in the Lords house through sacrament meeting and temple attendance.

Although disciples strive to follow Jesus Christ, Brother Dixon acknowledged that everyone will fall short at times. During those moments, the Spirit can help individuals recognize the need to repent and return to the Savior.

Concluding his message, Brother Dixon testified that in these latter days the Savior needs disciples who love Him and are willing to follow Him.

Many everyday disciples have gone before us. May we join their ranks!

Shayla Bott, professor and associate dean in the College of Fine Arts and Communications, addressed the campus community in a BYU devotional today. She invited the audience to become more artful in their living by making their time special through slowing down.

Drawing on the concept of art as making special, Bott explained that art is not limited to objects of beauty or skill but can be found in everyday actions that are given extra care and meaning. She applied this idea to how individuals choose to spend their time.

Slowing doesnt mean giving up on worthy goals and ideals, Bott said. It means widening your view and pausing long enough to notice whats already there.

Bott shared several simple ways she practices slowing in her own life, such as arriving on campus early to enjoy quiet moments, reading from a physical book rather than a device and walking to her destination without headphones. While these moments might appear unproductive, she explained that intentionally slowing down can create space to align ones life with Gods will.

Her message also pointed to the example of Jesus Christ. Though the Savior lived a busy life of ministry, Bott noted that He often paused to minister to individuals along the way.

Many of the miracles Christ performed happened when he was busy on His way to do something else, but took the time to stop and minister to those who needed Him, she said.

Bott acknowledged that students, like the Savior and His apostles, often feel overwhelmed by busy schedules. She encouraged listeners to seek out solitary places, or moments and spaces where they can step away from distraction and connect with God through practices such as temple worship, Sabbath observance and morning scripture study.

She then described a three-step pattern of spiritual development that slowing has created in her own life.

First, Bott explained that slowing creates interior space that allows individuals to act deliberately rather than reactively. By removing distractions and becoming more available to God, disciples can better hear and follow spiritual promptings.

Prayer, she said, is not only about speaking to God through prayer but also about taking the time to listen. Through quiet moments of reflection, individuals can receive personal revelation and feel the guiding influence of the Spirit. Quoting President Russell M. Nelson, she reminded listeners, There is no limit to the Saviors capacity to help you.

Second, Bott taught that slowing can consecrate efforts to become true disciples of Christ. Spiritual growth occurs through small, consistent choices to follow the Savior, including repenting when necessary.

Slowing fosters the ability to be agents unto ourselves as we practice following in the Saviors footsteps, instilling Godly confidence and spiritual self-reliance, Bott said.

She noted that just as spiritual progress happens gradually through small acts of faith, spiritual drift can occur slowly as well. Taking time for reflection allows individuals to examine their lives, recognize needed changes and remain on the covenant path.

Finally, Bott explained that slowing helps individuals let God prevail in their lives. Referencing President Nelsons teachings about the house of Israel, she emphasized the importance of willingness in choosing to allow God to guide ones life.

Slowing down, she said, creates the space needed for deeper conversion and helps disciples move beyond simply appearing faithful to truly becoming covenant-keeping followers of Jesus Christ.

Bott concluded by encouraging students to combine their spiritual and secular learning as they seek greater connection with the Savior.

I know life can be difficult, but it is easier with Christ, Bott testified. He knows you and loves you more than you can understand. He will nurture you and He will heal you.

She invited listeners to find small and simple ways to seek the Lord more intentionally, promising that doing so will bring greater guidance, rest and fulfillment.

Elder Quentin L. Cook addressed BYU campus today about having faith in the Information Age. He structured his remarks around personal experiences and prophetic teachings from the last 150 years.

In this time period, the world went through an agricultural age, an industrial age and an information age that is morphing into an artificial intelligence age, stated Elder Cook.

One of the experiences Elder Cook referenced was in 1986 when he heard a talk from George Schultz regarding industry, agriculture, but most importantly the rise of information. Not only would this rise change technology, but it would change the way people live, learn and earn their living, said Elder Cook.

Lives are shifting with the rise of artificial intelligence and other recent advances but Elder Cook explained that this progress is not random. It is linked to the rise of the gospel and the hastening of the Lords work on the earth.

Elder Cook touched on the agricultural age, specifically that people living during that time were required to depend on God and natural law as well as the efforts of their own hands. Through the introduction of the railroad, industry altered society in positive ways but also had the potential to cause spiritual harm because of the lack of community and reliance on God.

Apostles and prophets have continuously taught that in using our moral agency, we also need to emphasize character, integrity, and accountability to God [practices that are] just as applicable to the information age, Elder Cook emphasized.

During this Artificial Intelligence Age, Elder Cook emphasized the importance of grounding in eternal principles found in the scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon. He shared that even Oxford-educated and language-expert scholars have found truth in the Book of Mormon, gained spiritual witnesses and have been baptized.

He promised that the Lord will provide guidance through this age of deception. He acknowledged the good technology has brought about in the work of the Lord but also pointed out that it is a powerful force for destroying morality, especially in the film industry.

Elder Cook brought up some compelling research about the adverse effects of alcohol consumption, despite being widely broadcast through popular media like movies and TV shows. It was not until very recently that there has been a measurable decline in alcohol consumption. This contrasts with Gods efforts to protect his children through the Word of Wisdom, which has been in place since the 1800s.

Elder Cook reminded the audience that God has promised to give us prophets that will guide and protect those who will listen. Elder Cook invited the audience to filter out the noise of the world, follow the Spirit and remain confident in the Atonement of Jesus Christ during this unprecedented time.