Repentance & taqwaFrom the masjid's own video, Jan 31, 2026.

Run toward Allah after sin

“We have to work and develop an internal, passionate feeling of being impressed by Allah Ta'ala.”

The khateeb, at 27:12

In one sentence

During Sha'ban, believers should cultivate awe-filled closeness to Allah through Quran, study, repentance, humility, and service so hope and reverence guide them through sin, grief, and the afterlife.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Reflecting on staged creation and Sha'ban as a time to repent before Ramadan.
  2. Looking at familiar creation to cultivate awe of Allah as Creator.
  3. Running toward Allah after sin rather than hiding in shame.
  4. Reading Quran and studying Islam to build spiritual connection and understand death and the afterlife.
  5. Using prophetic examples and hadith to emphasize haya, humility, and self-accountability.
  6. Concluding with time devoted to Allah, visiting the sick, dua, mercy, and preparation for the next life.
Try this week
Read the Quran during Sha'ban with the intention of becoming impressed by Allah.
Ask Allah for emotional, intellectual, and spiritual connection while reading the Quran.
Make time to study Islam and ask qualified teachers religious questions rather than relying on ChatGPT.
Spend regular time with Allah's book and learn about the Prophet.
Visit the sick, repent, and make dua for Allah's mercy and forgiveness.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 75The Day of Judgment reveals what people did and removes the possibility of escape.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“We have to work and develop an internal, passionate feeling of being impressed by Allah Ta'ala.”
Middle Ground · Upland, CA
Play from 27:12
“Oh Allah, I am in need. I am in need of you. I am in need of your forgiveness. And if you do not have mercy upon me, then I will be lost.”
Middle Ground · Upland, CA
Play from 37:25
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

Today’s khutbah reminded us that we can turn back to Allah now, without waiting for Ramadan. The khateeb encouraged us to notice Allah’s creation, even in familiar things, and grow in wonder and reverence for Him. When we make mistakes, we should admit them and ask for forgiveness, remembering that Allah has the power to forgive even when we struggle to forgive ourselves. Spending time with the Quran, learning about the Prophet, and visiting the sick can deepen our connection with Allah and help us develop patience. We were reminded to approach Allah with humble hearts, hoping for His mercy and taking our choices seriously.

  1. What ordinary thing made you pause and appreciate Allah’s creation today?
  2. When you make a mistake, what helps you admit it and ask for forgiveness?
  3. How could we make time together this week to read Quran or learn about the Prophet?