September 12: Psalm 45; Psalms 47–48; 1 Kings 16:23–34; Philippians 1:12–30; Mark 16

Proper 18 First Psalm: Psalm 45 Psalm 45 (Listen) Your Throne, O God, Is Forever To the choirmaster: according to Lilies. A Maskil1 of the Sons of Korah; a love song. 45   My heart overflows with a pleasing theme;<br />    I address my verses to the king;<br />    my tongue is like the pen of a ready scribe.<br /> 2   You are the most handsome of the sons of men;<br />    grace is poured upon your lips;<br />    therefore God has blessed you forever.<br />3   Gird your sword on your thigh, O mighty one,<br />    in your splendor and majesty!<br /> 4   In your majesty ride out victoriously<br />    for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness;<br />    let your right hand teach you awesome deeds!<br />5   Your arrows are sharp<br />    in the heart of the king’s enemies;<br />    the peoples fall under you.<br /> 6   Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.<br />    The scepter of your kingdom is a scepter of uprightness;<br />7     you have loved righteousness and hated wickedness.<br />