June 6, 2004, Thursday of the 9th week in ordinary time.

A reading from the second letter of St. Paul to Timothy.

Beloved, remember Jesus Christ raised from the dead, a descendant of David.

Such is my gospel for which I am suffering, even to the point of chains like a criminal. But the word of God

is not chained. Therefore, I bear with everything for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they too

may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, together with eternal glory. This saying is trustworthy.

If we have died with Him, we shall also live with Him.

If we persevere, we shall also reign with Him.

But if we deny Him, He will deny us.

If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself.

Remind people of these things, and charge them before God to stop disputing about words. This serves

no useful purpose, since it harms those who listen. Be eager to present

yourself as acceptable to God, a workman who causes no disgrace imparting the word of truth

without deviation. The Word of the Lord

The Responsorial Psalm

The response is

Teach me your ways, O Lord.

Your ways, O Lord, make known to me.

Teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me,

for you are God, my Savior. Teach me your ways, O Lord. Good and upright is the Lord. Thus he shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice.

He teaches the humble his way. Teach me your ways, O Lord. All the paths of the Lord are kindness and constancy toward those who keep his covenant

and his decrees.

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