Character & conductFrom the masjid's own video, Aug 21, 2026.

True faith means kindness in every setting

“You have to notice things that other people might not notice.”

The khateeb, at 10:50

In one sentence

Loving the Prophet requires embodying Quranic character through kindness, self-control, emotional attentiveness, and good treatment of others in every setting.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Gives thanks for Friday, Islam, the Quran, and love of the Prophet.
  2. Uses Aisha’s description of the Prophet’s character as the Quran to frame true belief and focused prayer.
  3. Connects the Prophet’s mission to perfecting noble character in relationships, family, work, and daily conduct.
  4. Applies the message to anger, road rage, stinginess, neighbors, and consistency beyond the mosque.
  5. Illustrates emotional intelligence through the Prophet’s response to Abu Umair grieving his dead sparrow.
  6. Closes by urging attention to others’ emotions and making dua for faith, love, and guidance.
Try this week
Focus on Allah during salah and develop khushu.
Practice kindness consistently, including when driving or dealing with frustration.
Avoid anger, road rage, stinginess, and retaliatory behavior.
Treat neighbors, family, and relationship partners according to Quranic values.
Notice people’s facial expressions, make eye contact, and respond to hidden sadness.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 23Its opening verses describe successful believers and their humility and focus in prayer.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“all these outbursts they destroy your character and you don't even know it”
ISCJ · Monmouth Junction, NJ
Play from 7:20
“in every single thing especially relationships especially those relationships you have to uphold the values of the Qur'an”
ISCJ · Monmouth Junction, NJ
Play from 7:58
“you have to notice things that other people might not notice right? you have to look at people's faces you have to make eye contact when you talk to people”
ISCJ · Monmouth Junction, NJ
Play from 10:50
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

The khutbah teaches that loving Prophet Muhammad means living the Quran’s character, not only speaking about our love for him. The Prophet’s example includes focused prayer, kindness, patience, generosity, good treatment of neighbors and family, and self-control when anger rises. The story of Abu Umair’s dead sparrow shows that he noticed a child’s sadness and responded with emotional care. This week, we can follow that example by paying attention to people around us, making eye contact, and bringing Quranic values into every relationship.

  1. What is one kind thing you can do for a neighbor or family member this week?
  2. How can you tell when someone might be sad, even if they do not say it?
  3. What helps you stay calm when you feel anger rising?