The journey of the Magi is recounted in Matthew 2:1-12 and demonstrates the trustworthy nature of these three powerful figures. The Magi take the signs and portents of the Lord very seriously. They go to great lengths and some risk to remain obedient to the visions they are given. First they seek the child by going on a kind of pilgrimage journey. When they find Jesus, these stately, royal personages do not hesitate to bow down and worship the tiny baby. They also pay homage to the infant's foretold greatness by offering fantastic, indeed extravagant, gifts to this child born in poverty.

Finally the Magi put loyalty over royalty by once more listening to an angel messenger whose counsel warns them of Herod's evil intentions. Having traveled hastily and wearily under a secret night sky to …