Reflection for June 25 Wednesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 7:15-20

Gospel: Matthew 7:15-20

Jesus said to his disciples: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but underneath are ravenous wolves. By their fruits you will know them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 

Just so, every good tree bears good fruit, and a rotten tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a rotten tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. So by their fruits you will know them.”

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Reflection:

Do you value external appearance? 

To many people, first impressions matter a lot. External appearance is something they hold in high regard. But first impressions can be misleading, and outward appearances are often deceptive. So how can we truly know the heart of a person? We must listen to their words, observe their actions, and prayerfully seek to know their true character. 

There are moments when we are easily captivated by what is seen on the surface, only to realize later that it was not genuine. The world we live in today is filled with pretense and superficiality. As followers of Christ, we are called not to judge by appearances, but to discern with the eyes of faith. Let us not be swayed by what we see with our naked eyes, for appearances can easily deceive. 

In the Gospel, Jesus warns us about false prophets. Who are they? They are those who speak beautifully about God, yet fail to live according to His teachings. They project a holy image outwardly, but inwardly, their hearts are far from God. Their good appearance is a façade meant to hide who they truly are. 

These individuals lead others astray while securing their own comfort and power. They preach rituals and religious practices, yet they do not walk the path they teach. There are many such false prophets today. That is why we must always be prayerful, watchful, and discerning. Let us remain rooted in God’s Word and guided by the Holy Spirit, so we may not be misled by those who wear the mask of holiness but deny its true power. 

Let us look beyond what the eyes can see and seek to know others through the light of Christ. True goodness and holiness flow not from appearances but from a heart that sincerely loves and obeys the Lord. — Marino J. Dasmarinas