May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.

Psalm 141:2

The Magi's second gift, frankincense, was far more than a simple fragrant resin; it was a deeply symbolic offering with ties to worship and priesthood. In ancient times, frankincense was used by priests in the temple to create a holy incense that would ascend to God, representing the prayers of His people. By offering frankincense, the Magi were not only acknowledging Jesus' divine nature but also his role as our ultimate High Priest. He is the one who stands in the gap for us, interceding on our behalf and making our prayers holy and acceptable to God. This gift highlights a profound truth: our prayers are not just a one-way communication but an act of dedicated, unhurried worship.

In the busyness of the Christmas season, our prayers can easily become hurried lists of needs and wants. We pray for our family's safety, for successful travel, or for the strength to get through our to-do lists. While these prayers are valid, the gift of frankincense calls us to something more. It invites us to set aside our own needs and focus on the character of God—to offer Him prayers of praise, adoration, and intercession for others. This kind of prayer is an unhurried act of surrendering our own agenda to honor Him. It reminds us that Jesus is the perfect mediator, the one who carries our prayers and our praises to the throne of God. This is our offering, our frankincense, and it brings a deep peace that transcends the chaos of the season.

Take five minutes today to pray only prayers of praise and intercession, setting aside your own needs to focus solely on God.

Questions for Reflection

1. How often do your prayers consist of requests for yourself versus praise for who God is?

2. What is one specific thing about God's character that you can praise Him for today, even if your circumstances are difficult?

3. Who is one person you can intentionally intercede for today, setting aside your own needs to focus on theirs?