https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/062624.cfm
False Prophets – Scammers
I remember hardly locking our doors during the day when I was a child. Unfortunately, the sense of trust is gone today. Scammers are everywhere. We now have security systems for homes, phones, and computers. I know people who con artists scammed out of everything they own. When they told me, I looked into their eyes; all I saw was emptiness. They seemed to lose even their identity.
Jesus tells us to be aware of false prophets or scammers. The sheep’s clothing is their tactic to get someone to trust them. It could take a year or two for false prophets to groom their victim. Their hearts are like ravenous wolves. So, how do you discern if someone is a genuine or false prophet? When they begin to seek something for themselves. Watch for that move.
The same is true in the life experiences we encounter every day. Jesus tells us how to discern a person’s motives. “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.”
Watch for anger, impatience, criticizing, demanding their way, even subtly. Even watch for their persistence in getting something for themselves. It’s their way or the highway. This is how a scammer probably started. Everyone else is wrong.
A good tree, Jesus said, cannot produce bad fruit. And he added that a bad tree cannot produce good fruit. So, a person’s motive will always show in their virtues or vices.
Gospel Challenge:
It would be good for our souls and relationships with God and each other to see if we have been false prophets without knowing it. Am I ever arrogant, bitter, critical, or unforgiving? It’s never too late to be sorry and change. Pray for a clean heart.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
