15:21 the language that…19:58 One single act can…
Civic engagementFrom the masjid's own video, Aug 1, 2026.

Build a life that outlives you

MCM

“One single act can have a huge weight and a huge effect, not only in this life, but also in the life to come.”

The khateeb, at 19:58

Watch the khutbahFamily kit
In one sentence

A life outlives us when our words, character, service, and responsibilities leave enduring positive traces that benefit people and communities after we are gone.

The khutbah in 7 steps

  1. Taqwa, Quranic guidance, unity, and love for the Prophet’s character establish the spiritual foundation.
  2. The khutbah introduces the theme of building a life that outlives us through Surah Yasin 36:12.
  3. Allah records both deeds and the traces or consequences those deeds leave behind.
  4. Words shape thoughts, conduct, children, and the environments people create.
  5. Believers are challenged to plant seeds through enduring service rather than merely enjoy inherited benefits.
  6. The Islamic center’s purpose is to build people through worship, education, responsibility, and community service.
  7. Listeners are given concrete examples: volunteering, giving, cleaning, smiling, greeting, and uplifting children.
Try this week
Teach or support a youth class.
Volunteer at the book bag and school-supply drive at 8:30 a.m. Saturday.
Give time or money according to one’s ability.
Pick up trash around the masjid safely.
Smile at fellow Muslims and offer them the greeting.
Use language that builds children up rather than tears them down.
Find a meaningful level of responsibility at the Islamic center or another masjid.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 3Used to define taqwa and emphasize dying in submission to Allah.
Surah 36Used to argue that Allah records deeds and the traces they leave behind.
Surah 55Used to highlight Allah’s gift of eloquent speech and language.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“the language that we're pouring into them is language that will build them up, not language that will tear them down.”
MCM · South Montgomery, AL
Play from 15:21
“One single act can have a huge weight and a huge effect, not only in this life, but also in the life to come.”
MCM · South Montgomery, AL
Play from 19:58
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khutbah teaches that Allah records not only what we do, but also the traces and effects our actions leave behind. Our words and behavior can build people up or spread hurt, so families have a responsibility to give children language that strengthens them. A life that outlives us is built through enduring good, such as teaching, serving, smiling, caring for the masjid, and helping the community. We should not only enjoy the shade created by others; while we have the ability, we should plant seeds for those who come after us. Our goal is to help build people and keep the Quran as the guide for our lives.

  1. What is one kind word you can say today that might brighten someone’s day?
  2. What is one helpful thing our family could do for the masjid or community?
  3. What is a good habit you hope people remember you for?
Where it was given

The masjid

Muslim Center of Montgomery, Inc.4347 Norman Bridge Road, Montgomery, AL 36105Jumu'ah 1:00 PMArchiveAll khutbahs at MCM4 khutbahs
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