Subject: [Masjid Tucson] Submission weekly reminder

In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Peace be upon you,

It's "March madness" (basketball) time in the USA. Other countries have their own competitive sporting events that are passionately followed. Worldwide, people invest significant time and resources to "win" their favorite events.

Unlike victories in this world that are forgotten over time, if one attains Paradise, by God's grace, it is a victory that lasts forever. It provides more happiness than any worldly championship. It is what people should work and compete for (Quran 37:60-61, 83:26).


[Quran 9:72] GOD promises the believing men and the believing women gardens with flowing streams, wherein they abide forever, and magnificent mansions in the gardens of Eden. And GOD's blessings and approval are even greater. This is the greatest triumph.

     Redemption: The Greatest Triumph 
[Quran 37:60-61] Such is the greatest triumph. 
 This is what every worker should work for.
 
[Quran 23:57-61] Surely, those who are reverently conscious of their Lord,
 And who believe in the revelations of their Lord,
 And who never set up any idols beside their Lord,
 As they give their charities, their hearts are fully reverent. For they recognize that they will be summoned before their Lord,
 They are eager to do righteous works; they compete in doing them.

[Quran 83:22-26] The righteous have deserved bliss.
 On luxurious furnishings they watch.
 You recognize in their faces the joy of bliss.
 Their drinks will be spiced with nectar.
 Its spice is like musk. This is what the competitors should compete for.


While seeking success in a favored sport is well-accepted and admired, we should ask ourselves: Should we not work as hard or harder for seeking the greatest triumph, i.e., attaining Paradise and God's approval (Quran 4:13, 5:119, 6:16, 9:72, 9:111, etc.)?


References:
The Greatest Triumph, http://www.masjidtucson.org/publications/books/sp/2014/jun/page4.html
Race towards righteousness, http://www.masjidtucson.org/submission/perspectives/more/traits/race_righteousness.html

Peace.