gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

The Christmas season has officially come to a close, but the Biblical account of the birth of Christ remains timeless. Nativity sets may be carefully stowed away in giant Tupperware boxes, nestled alongside macaroni ornaments from Christmases of the past and strings of lights, covered by a wreath that will once again grace the front door next December. Although the figurines are out of sight, unpacking the stately wise men unearths a powerful, modern day message that deserves daily application.

Wise men were commonly referred to as Magi, royalty within the caste system, who devoted themselves to learning. Known for their study of the constellations, they were viewed as the scientific authority on astronomy. Matthew 2 depicts their arrival on the scene of Jerusalem, when Herrod was king. They were on a mission, led by a star, seeking insight from the reigning king of the Jews regarding the whereabouts of the long-foretold King of the Jews. Consider Harrod's potential state of confusion! "I'm sorry, I think you've been spending too much time looking through your telescope. My name is Har-rod. Two syllables. Ask anyone around here and they'll quickly let you know that this is my turf. Has been for some time."

If the journey of the wise men originated in Babylon, the trek to Bethlehem likely spanned more than 500 miles. Familiarity with traveling great distances may have aided in the time required to complete the trip, but a one-way ticket would still clock out at over two weeks. With the advent of planes, trains and automobiles and the speed at which information is shared, the thought of taking four weeks of time off work to deliever a gift seems unthinkable. Make a purchase online, in the color of your preference, pay the shipping costs and FedEx guarantees delivery within 2-3 business days. The devotion of these men to their cause showcases what it means to be dedicated, committed without question.

Not only did they show up to simply congratulate Joseph and Mary on the birth of their child and kneel before the King before holding Him in their arms, they had valuable and significant presents in tow. They had done their research and made exceptional purchases: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. They showed up to express adoration.

The spiritual calling to bow before the King is outlined by the Apostle Paul in Romans: "I APPEAL to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well-pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational and intelligent) service and spiritual worship. (Romans 12:1, AMP) Today, gold, frankincense, and myrrh take on the appearance of time, energy and talent. In the eloquent and simple words of Leo Buscaglia, "Your talent is God's gift to you; what you do with it is your gift to God." Paul's translation: DECISIVE DEDICATION.

Take inventory of the time, energy and talent in-house, then consider how it can be employed to worship the King of Kings, the Most High, Savior of the world. He gave His life that we might live. What is the appropriate response? While it may be expressed differently (the beauty of each unique individual), it is certainly a question that requires an answer.