July 24, 2004, Wednesday of the 16th week in ordinary time.

A reading from the book of the prophet Jeremiah. The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkaya,

of a priestly family in Anathothoth in the land of Benjamin. The word of the Lord came to me thus.

Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you.

Before you were born, I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you.

Ah, Lord God, I said, I know not how to speak. I am too young. But the Lord answered

me, say not, I am too young. To whomever I send you, you shall go. Whatever I command you, you shall speak. Have no fear before them,

because I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord. Then the Lord extended his hand and touched

my mouth, saying, See, I place my words in your mouth.

This day I set you over nations and over kingdoms,

to root up and to tear down,

to destroy and to demolish,

to build and to plant.

The word of the Lord.

The responsorial psalm.

The response is, I will sing of your salvation.

In you, O Lord, I take refuge.

Let me never be put to shame.

In your justice, rescue me and deliver me. Incline your ear to me and save me.

I will sing of your salvation. Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety. For you are my rock

and my fortress. Oh my God, rescue me from the hand of the wicked.

I will sing of your salvation. For you are my hope, O Lord, my trust, O God, from my youth.

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