triple crown
"The word of the Lord came through the prophet Haggai: Tell this to the governor of Judah, Zerubbabel, son of Shealtiel, and to the high priest Joshua, son of Jehozadak, and to the remnant of the people." —Haggai 2:1-2
The Lord in His perfect plan of salvation put a prophet, a governor, and a priest together to rebuild the Temple, restore God's people, and renew the world. Historically, prophets were often persecuted by government authorities and priests. Sometimes governors or kings tried to usurp the rights of the priesthood. Then prophets railed at the government for its sin, sacrilege, and idolatry. Thus, it was rare for prophets, governors or kings, and priests to converge in solidarity and bring about renewal for God's people.
When Jesus became incarnate, these three roles, which had seldom come together, were united for the first time in the person of Jesus. He is the Prophet prophesied by Moses (Dt 18:18; Acts 3:22ff). Jesus is "the King of kings and Lord of lords" (1 Tm 6:15). He is the eternal High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek (Heb 5:10). Moreover, those who have been baptized into Jesus share in His prophecy, kingship, and priesthood. Thus, by living our Baptisms in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, we can renew the face of the earth (see Ps 104:30).
Prayer: Father, may I love the Church so much that I am willing to die to renew her.
Promise: "Bring me to Your holy mountain, to Your dwelling-place. Then will I go in to the altar of God, the God of my gladness and joy." —Ps 43:3-4
Praise: Sts. Cosmas and Damian, twin brothers, were martyred for love of Jesus together with their three brothers.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape Jesus' Incarnation on audio AV 52-3 or video V-52.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Richard L. Klug, February 27, 2003
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, March 3, 2003