Scriptures have become an intricate part of my everyday routine; from waking up and reading the daily verse of the day to get myself started and refreshed to evening devotions and prayer with my family. Oftentimes, I find that a specific verse from the bible finds me when I need to hear those words of encouragement or reassurance the most. As I have gone through this last semester of my college career under the predicaments of COVID-19, I found peace of mind and affirmation in reading scriptures and remembering all the ones spoken to me when I was young. My beloved Aunt Su’e was always my constant reminder that no matter what we do, or where we go, we should always remember to read our bibles and pray every day (like the Sunday school song).

One of my favorite scriptures that she would recite to me is from Proverbs 9:10 and it says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge- O le mata’u ia Ieova, o le amataga o le poto lea.” I keep this verse close to my heart because it reminds me of her overwhelming love and faith she instilled in me, as well as helping to mold me into the woman I am today.

Growing up in Hawai’i and the Cal-Pac Conference, I have come across a multitude of people from different ethnic backgrounds, generations and religious beliefs. As believers of the gospel, we read these scriptures to guide us on our journey here on earth, living and acting the way Jesus did in order to strengthen our relationship with God. Although I may identify as a Methodist or Christian, I believe everyone no matter what religion they practice, whether it be Islam, Buddhism, or Hinduism, should be treated equally regardless. God created each and every one of us differently, yet we are equal parts of the body of Christ. When we start to show hate or discriminate against each other based on our beliefs, we begin to lose sight of what the bible teaches us about loving one another as God loved us.

Taimane Yasuda
Aiea United Methodist Church