FRANKINCENSE

It was no coincidence that the magi brought frankincense to Jesus.

Incense symbolized prayer!

Frankincense was a fragrant incense used by the Jews in their worship of God.  It came from a very small tree that grew on the limestone rocks in southern Arabia.  They learned to slice the bark of the tree and collect tear-like drops which were white in appearance.  Once dried, this would be pulverized and mixed with other fragrances to make incense for use in their worship (Exodus 30:34-38).  This fragrance was holy and they were forbidden from copying it for personal use!

Fragrances played a much larger role in the worship of the Jews than it does for most modern believers.  Some of this was probably necessary because of the slaughtering of animals.

Frankincense was unique in that it had to be burned to give its fragrance.  It was also beneficial because when it was added to other incenses, it increased their odor and prolonged their effect.  The visual and aromatic impact on worshippers must have been significant.  It was a way of helping the people visualize their prayers and worship ascending to God!

Ephesians 5:1
In a word, as God's dear children, try to be like Him, and live in love as Christ loved you, and gave Himself up on your behalf as an offering and sacrifice whose fragrance is pleasing to God.

NOTE:
Frankincense was not included in a sin offering.  This adds meaning to the giving of this gift to Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God!