1. Lectio
Read the passage slowly and attentively, paying close attention to each word and detail.
Passage: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in the clothing of sheep, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. By their fruits you shall know them. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit, and the evil tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can an evil tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit, shall be cut down, and shall be cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits you shall know them. Not every one that saith to me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doth the will of my Father who is in heaven, he shall enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (Saint Matthew 7:15-21)
2. Meditatio
Reflect on the Bible passage, considering what it says about Christ and how it speaks to your own spiritual life.
- Beware of false prophets: Reflect on the warning about false prophets who disguise themselves as harmless but are actually dangerous. Consider how you discern true from false teachings in your spiritual life.
- By their fruits you shall know them: Reflect on the principle that actions and results reveal the true nature of a person. Consider the fruits of your own life and actions, and what they reveal about your faith.
- Good and evil trees: Reflect on the analogy of good and evil trees and the type of fruit they produce. Consider how you can cultivate a life that produces good fruit.
- Consequences of bearing no good fruit: Reflect on the serious consequences for those who do not produce good fruit. Consider the importance of living a life that is fruitful in good deeds and aligned with God’s will.
- Doing the will of the Father: Reflect on the distinction Jesus makes between those who merely profess faith and those who truly do the will of the Father. Consider how you can more faithfully live out God’s will in your daily life.
3. Oratio
Respond to the passage with prayer, seeking to connect with our Lord through today’s Gospel.
My Lord Jesus, as I reflect on Thy words, I think of the importance of discernment and living a life that bears good fruit. Help me to recognise false prophets and to stay true to Thy teachings. Grant me the grace to cultivate a heart and life that produce good fruit, pleasing to Thee. Strengthen my commitment to doing the will of the Father, not just in words but in actions. Guide me to live a life that truly reflects Thy love and truth. For the glory of God. Amen.
4. Contemplatio
Spend some time in silent contemplation, resting in God’s presence and allowing the truths of the passage to sink deeply into your heart.
Imagine yourself in a garden, examining the fruits of the trees. Reflect on the quality of the fruit in your own life, symbolising your actions and deeds. Contemplate the call to produce good fruit and the importance of aligning your life with God’s will. Rest in the assurance that God provides the grace needed to live a fruitful life.
5. Actio
Consider how you can apply the insights gained from this passage to your daily life.
- Discernment: Seek to grow in discernment, being vigilant against false teachings and influences that lead you away from Christ.
- Examine your fruits: Regularly examine the fruits of your actions and behaviours. Strive to produce good fruit that reflects your faith and commitment to God.
- Cultivate good habits: Foster habits and practices that help you live according to God’s will, such as prayer, reading Scripture, and performing acts of charity.
- Live out your faith: Focus on living out your faith through concrete actions, not just words. Strive to embody the teachings of Christ in all areas of your life.
- Seek God’s will: Continuously seek to understand and do the will of the Father, allowing His guidance to shape your decisions and actions.
