June 25, 2025

Matthew 7:15-20

Today Jesus warns against “false prophets,” those leaders who talk a good game but inside they are “ravenous,” greedy, selfish, interested in their own profit.  But how will we know who these false prophets are? “By their fruits you will know them,” he says.  This means that we’ll know by their actions and behavior whether they are genuine or not. 

The fruits of the Holy Spirit are a good guide: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23).  Does the person engage in cruelty, lack self-control, condone violence?  If so, certainly do not be misled, they are not a genuine leader or prophet.

Right now is a time in the history of humankind that is much more pivotal and crucial than perhaps anyone fully realizes, a time we have been preparing for, a fork in the road towards peace and stability or conflict and loss of the natural environment with all it entails.  We are asking everyone to gird your loins, meaning prepare for a hard struggle so that peace and care for the earth may prevail.  Stay focused and pay attention, do all that you can to help one another and nature’s creatures. Amen.