Artist-King, you who created us from impure clay and whose skill is manifest in the things of the world, let us ever acknowledge the wonder of your work. Bring us the keystone, the tent peg, the center of the circle who will repair our lowly house and heart with a firm hand. We wait in weariness for the arrival of one who will leave only the chosen standing. Draw us together as daughters and sons of God. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

1 Only fools say in their hearts, “There is no God.”
They are corrupt, and their actions are evil;
not one of them does good!
2 God looks down from heaven on the entire human race;
he looks to see if anyone is truly wise,
if anyone seeks God.
3 But no, all have turned away; all have become corrupt.
No one does good, not a single one!
4 Will those who do evil never learn?
They eat up my people like bread
and wouldn’t think of praying to God.
6 Who will come from Mount Zion to rescue Israel?
When God restores his people,
Jacob will shout with joy, and Israel will rejoice.
Psalm 53 New Living Translation

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading): Zechariah 3:1-10 – Revelation 4:1-8 - Matthew 24:45-51