Over the past week, several beloveds from the US and around the world attended a memorial gathering in Jerusalem in honor of the one-year anniversary of the passing of our guide, Sidi Shaykh Muhammad al-Jamal. The event was hosted by Sidi’s son Mahmoud.
Thanks to the work of our beloved Salih Kent and the Shadduli Center and Mahmoud and many others, those who did not attend live could watch a live broadcast each day.
The beloveds shared their photos and videos of their excursions to the holy sites. They invited us to participate live with them in dhikrs, to participate remotely in a khalwa, an all-night prayer retreat, at the tomb of Musa (Moses), and even to watch the Sufi dervishes whirl with live music, singing, chanting and drumming.
Al-humduli’llah! Praise Allah! It was a glorious event, and the broadcast brought many blessings to our hearts!
At the same time, here in the US, a number of beloveds continue to express uncertainty and fear about what our future holds since last week’s election. On one of the broadcasts, someone asked Mahmoud what he thought Sidi would say to us as Americans in light of the election’s outcome.
Though we do not take a stand on politics, I thought you might find his response helpful. Mahmoud replied, “Politicians are not in any way of a position to affect our faith, our hearts, our stand on matters.”
Your faith is your faith, no matter what happens in the world. Nothing outside of you has the power to change your faith in God.
It’s helpful to have this reminder.
As long as we are in a human body, it is natural to experience wavering in our love and trust for Allah. Some days we may feel ecstasy, other days yearning, other days questioning, and other days we may not feel much of anything.
Yet, Allah’s loves for us is eternal and ever-present and does not change.
When matters of the world bring up uncertainty and fear, or shake our trust, this is a time to turn to Allah, praise be to Him, and ask Him to help strengthen our trust and solidify our faith. We can ask for help to see God’s hand in everything that moves.
If you notice your faith in Allah begin to falter and fear begin to creep in, let it be a reminder to turn to Allah for help. Let it be an opportunity to strengthen your certainty and trust in Allah.
May the peace and blessings of Allah by upon you.
With love and gratitude,
Mastura Graugnard on behalf of all your friends and family at UOS
