Character & conductFrom the masjid's own video, Dec 27, 2025.
Model mercy before demanding perfect character
“Rahmah comes by engaging the child or the fellow human being based on where they are and not expecting them to be perfect from the very start.”
In one sentence
Muslims should practice compassionate accountability by modeling mercy, purpose, and good character for themselves, their families, and their wider community, especially amid social media pressures.
The khutbah in 4 steps
- Defines shafaqa as compassionate concern for future accountability and paradise.
- Critiques social media for rewarding cruelty, weak role models, and meaningless content.
- Encourages explaining the reasons behind prayer, fasting, charity, pilgrimage, and ethical conduct.
- Calls for relief efforts for neighbors affected by heavy rains and renewed community responsibility.
Try this week
Model the prayer, ethics, and character expected from children.
Listen seriously to children's struggles instead of dismissing their emotions.
Explain why Muslims pray, give sadaqah, fast, perform hajj, avoid lies, and avoid foul language.
Learn answers to children's religious questions when you do not know them.
Support relief efforts for neighbors affected by the rains with time, money, or physical help.
Donate at the announced blood drive and volunteer during Ramadan.
Sources the khateeb cited
Quran 52:26-28Uses the people of paradise's compassion for their families to explain shafaqa and concern about future consequences.
Quran 11:88Uses Shu'aib's example to argue that leaders must practice what they teach.
Quotes
In the khateeb's words
“anyone who becomes absorbed by social media becomes incredibly vulnerable to a world view a lifestyle that is stripped and void of mercy of true role models and of meaning”
“the rahmah comes by engaging the child or the fellow human being based on where they are and not expecting them to be perfect from the very start”
“unfortunately you are seeing people with beards and women with hijab who are saying qalallah qalarrasool but they have very little akhlaq and that is a disaster”
Keep listening
More on Character & conduct
The strong is the one who controls himself while in anger.10:16Masjid Al-Noor · Waterloo, IA · Oct 31, 2026Control anger before it causes harm
Peer pressure is an issue that is just as applicable to adults as it is to children.5:08The Rayyan Center · Plymouth, MI · Oct 31, 2026Adults must choose their influences
Lowering your gaze is cleaner to your heart and fulfilling the amanah that Allah gave you.1:03:23Rahma Center · Lake Forest, CA · Oct 30, 2026Every trust from Allah must be honored