Subject: [Masjid Tucson] Submission weekly reminder

In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Peace be upon you,

God gives us important principles to guide nations, including maximum freedom for the people, preservation of human rights, prosperity and social justice for all. The founding fathers of the USA were guided to adopt some of these principles. They were "theists," who had a strong belief in God. That God was watching over them. Part of that fundamental belief was that no one had the right to dictate their religious beliefs on another. Thomas Jefferson understood this when he said: "It does me no injury for my neighbor to say there are twenty gods or no God." And he also said: "The God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time.". They were also guided to be appreciative of God and His many blessings as was evident in Washington's inaugural address containing expressions of gratitude to God.

The Quran says:
     No Compulsion in Religion
[2:256] There shall be no compulsion in religion: the right way is now distinct from the wrong way. Anyone who denounces the devil and believes in GOD has grasped the strongest bond; one that never breaks. GOD is Hearer, Omniscient.

     Appreciative vs Unappreciative
[14:7] Your Lord has decreed: "The more you thank Me, the more I give you." But if you turn unappreciative, then My retribution is severe.


To succeed as a people and as a nation, we need to return to God. To turn to Him in supplication and thanksgiving (Quran 1:5, 2:152). To teach our children to be righteous (Quran 2:132, 2:220), honest, God-fearing and God-loving (2:165). Treat each other kindly and charitably. Acknowledge that God possesses all power (18:39) and that we have no authority except what He gives us. And keep God in our hearts all the time (Quran 7:205).


References:
What Price A Great Nation, http://www.masjidtucson.org/quran/appendices/appendix36.html
For a Greater America, http://www.masjidtucson.org/publications/books/sp/2017/feb/page1.html

Peace.