“…verily, Allah is kind (gentle) and He loves kindness (gentleness) and confers upon kindness which he does not confer upon severity ….” Sahih Muslim 2593
The occasion of celebrating the birth and life of our Master and Guide, our Beloved Prophet Muhammad (saw), should be used to strengthen our will to follow his example. Let us reflect on his message:
“Wealth, social position and racial superiority do not give special status to anyone; all of you are equal in the eyes of God. It is only the path of righteousness, which makes you a distinguished human being.”
His dying words were filled with care, concern and a recipe for success:
“Treat your women well, and do not oppress your servants, the prayer, the prayer, don’t be neglectful of the prayer. O God, my highest companion, my highest companion.”
Prophet Muhammad (saw) displayed a true and abiding love for his followers and offered ceaseless prayers on our behalf for protection, guidance, mercy, and forgiveness. In return, we offer prayers of gratitude and respect and love, and we strive to follow his example so that we can be worthy to obtain his intercession to help us enter paradise.
Let the noble birth of our Beloved Prophet Muhammad (saws) be a new beginning for us to evaluate where we are in emulating the beautiful Prophetic character of the best of creation. Let us sincerely ask ourselves, how far have we progressed in our obedience to Allah swt, how much of the Holy Quran do we read and reflect on in our daily lives, are our experiences in life uplifting us, are we good and truthful to our family, neighbors and friends, do we withhold being angry and responding with forgiveness? Unless we can all refine our character only then can we find true felicity in this life and the next and then and only then can we claim to truly love Prophet Muhammad (saws). There is much work for all of us to do.
I ask Allah (swt) to bless all of you as we join in praising our Beloved Prophet Muhammad (saw):
O Allah, bless our Master Muhammad, who opened what was closed and sealed what was before. He makes the truth victorious, and he is the guide to Your Straight Path. And bless his Household as it befits his immense stature and splendor.
Oh Allah! Bestow Your Mercy and Blessings upon Muhammad whenever he is remembered and bestow Your Mercy and Blessings upon Muhammad whenever he is not remembered.
May the Peace and Blessing of the Most Merciful be upon each and everyone.