The weekly BYU-Idaho devotionals require many behind-the-scenes hours of preparation for the speaker, editors and BYU-Idaho Center tech personnel. The university specifically sets aside the 11:30–12:30 hour block for devotionals each semester. Sebastian Mora Mora, professional goalie for the Chattanooga Red Wolves and remote BYU-Idaho student, was recently featured in a BYU-Idaho promotional video for devotionals to inspire fellow students to attend.
As a full-time soccer player, Mora Mora wakes up around 5 a.m. every day to pray and read his scriptures. Mora Mora tries to view devotionals each week because he believes it makes a difference in the trajectory of his week and has a positive impact on his spirituality. Within the promotional video, Mora Mora testified that devotional is worthwhile and encouraged other students to make the same effort to listen to the devotional messages.
“I find that, when I make time to connect with the Spirit, all that other stuff in my life just falls into place,” he said. “It’s all about balance you know, and when I work devotional into my routine, I always notice the difference it makes. So, make that time guys. It’s worth it!”
In an interview with BYU-Idaho Radio, he expressed gratitude that devotionals are recorded and uploaded to the school website, so he can view them whenever his busy schedule permits. Mora Mora also recognized that connecting with God through simple acts like viewing devotional helps students to be better member missionaries to those around them in vocational and academic settings.
“My faith is a big part of my career, and I think it’s what has helped me in every aspect of my life, including my professional career. You know, just being a member of the (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) makes me be a happier person … I think that’s the best example we can give as a Latter-day Saints, enjoying life, being happy. When people see that, they want that,” Mora Mora said.