As we meditate on these parables of Jesus, we are able to discern the teachings Jesus was imparting about experiencing the preciousness and value of some situations in our day-to-day struggles, and which have made a big difference in our lives or in the lives of others.

The many encounters with individuals or situations which have enriched our lives are like stumbling on to “fine pearls”, and having found these “ pearls ”, we are encouraged us to sell everything we own and buy it. For us finding the pearl is the joy that lies in the sacrifices we make in our daily lives in serving our brothers and sisters.

Very often we would sit and share our experiences - the frustrations and obstacles which at times obstruct the progress of what we set out to achieve, bringing a feeling of hopelessness, almost to the point of giving up. Suddenly things would change; we would become excited again, energized, and motivated to go on and to do more. Like finding the treasure, we are moved to sell everything we have to buy the field.

There is the story of a person who for over forty years was unable to read or write, and then one day after having attended an adult literacy class was able to recognize and write her name. It brought tears of joy to her eyes. Since then on every occasion that she was able to do so she cried. She had found the precious pearl, sold all that she had to buy it, by making the sacrifice to attend the classes on a regular basis.

In dealing with the many ills in our society one is confronted with a variety of situations which at times pose a challenge. Some time ago in the course of assisting someone who was socially displaced because of his physical condition, news came that he was hospitalized in an attempt to take his life.

During visits at the hospital, we became aware that while he was a baptized Catholic he did not practice his faith. He also showed no inclination to wanting to rectify the situation. Eventually, he was discharged from the hospital having made a full recovery.

He continued to be in contact with us after his release from the hospital. On one occasion during one of his visits he surprisingly asked us to see a priest, for which immediate arrangements were made.

After making the arrangements contact with the young man was lost for sometime. Then unexpectedly he appeared one day unrecognizable to me. His physical appearance completely transformed, he no longer looked the sad, depressed and angry person that I knew. His face was aglow with a permanent smile, and he displayed an exuberance which was never there before.

Seeing my complete astonishment, he explained: “Ever since my interview with the priest I am a changed person. I have been attending Mass every Sunday morning at Mt. St. Benedict and receiving Holy Communion. I now feel at peace with myself. I am very happy.”

His willing acceptance to be a friend of God was the precious treasure, the “pearl” which he had found, and was ready to sell everything that he owned to buy it.

Lord we thank you for the gift you have given us in allowing us to search the field until we find the treasure, and for the joy surging in our hearts when that precious treasure is found.

Lord we ask forgiveness for those in our society who thrive on greed and selfishness thereby creating many hardships especially among the less fortunate; we pray for a speedy change in their attitude.

Lord we pray for those who are unable to discern the will of God in their lives, we pray that they will not become discouraged but persevere to the end. Give them faith to know that one day they will find that treasure hidden in the field or that fine pearl.

Gospel Meditations for the month of July are by Malcolm and Janet Joseph, parishioners of St Anthony's, Petit Valley . Malcolm is the co-ordinator of Caritas-AIDS ministry and Janet is a tutor with the ALTA programme.