1. In the pursuit of public justice, one challenge we typically face is an imbalance of gifts/personalities that shape the public conversation and the crucial work of transformation.
2. We are rarely short on “prophets”—those who speak truth, name the problem, call for repentance and righteousness. They serve a crucial role, but by themselves they cannot effect change. Prophets are, of course, best rewarded in our present moment.
3. But we also need “priests”—those who bring people together, build bridges with the masonry of mercy and kingdom empathy, assure others of the possibility of new beginnings. Without these there can be no healing. They promote the inner work needed for lasting transformation.
4. And, of course, we must also have “kings”—those who lead, bring order to chaos, and administrate actual steps of change. Their work is less visible, long-term, slow.
5. The point is simply this: In order to seek justice effectively and sustainably, prophetic, priestly, and kingly people—or congregations, or institutions (we all have our strengths and limitations)—all need to be fully engaged and collaborating together.
