Follow the Prophet through trust and service
“In a battle against the enemy, we're all thinking, well, they are the enemy.”
Following Prophet Muhammad means embodying his complete example through trustworthiness, equal regard for people, and active love for the Ahlulbayt through learning, worship, moral conduct, and service.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Celebrates the births of the Prophet and Imam Ja'far al-Sadiq and calls listeners to study the Prophet's complete example.
- Uses the Battle of Khaybar shepherd story to show that trust must be honored even toward an enemy.
- Applies the Prophet's character to Muslims' public conduct and responsibility amid Islamophobia.
- Explains Quranic mawaddah as love for the Ahlulbayt expressed through action, not affection alone.
- Translates mawaddah into religious study, dua for Imam al-Mahdi, avoiding sins, and community service.
- Closes with prayers and announcements about a celebration and community membership.
In the khateeb's words
“He will preach and he will educate and he will inform. Poor and rich, young and old, men and women, one who has status and the one who doesn't have status.”
“Again, in a battle against the enemy, we're all thinking, well, they are the enemy. We'll take whatever it is from them.”
For the dinner table
The khateeb encouraged us to learn about the Prophet’s life and put his teachings into practice, including his kindness and honesty. He told the story of a shepherd whom the Prophet instructed to return entrusted sheep to their owner, even though the Muslims were hungry and at war with the owner’s people. This reminds us to keep people’s trust even when doing so is difficult. He also explained that love for Ahlulbayt should lead to action through learning their teachings, remembering them, and living faithfully. He encouraged prayer for Imam al-Mahdi and service to the community using whatever time, money, or abilities we have.
- What does taking good care of something you borrowed look like?
- How could you help someone feel included at school or at the mosque?
- What is one action our family could take this week to show our love for Ahlulbayt?
More on the Prophets & seerah
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