Which of the following is not a gift that the wise men brought for Jesus?

When you think of the gifts the wise men—a.k.a. the Magi—brought to Jesus, gold, frankincense, and myrrh stand out. These aren't just ordinary gifts; they hint at Jesus' royal status, divine nature, and future sacrifice. Gold, a symbol of wealth and kingship, emphasized that Jesus was more than just a child; He was a King.

Now, our friend silver? That didn't make the cut. It's intriguing to consider why the wise men brought what they did. Frankincense, for example, was used in religious ceremonies and signifies Jesus' divine aspect. It was often burned in worship, pointing to His identity as God incarnate.

And myrrh? This substance is often associated with burials—it was an oil used to embalm the dead—foreshadowing Jesus’ eventual suffering and death. Interestingly, the gifts themselves have sparked debate among scholars over their deeper meanings. Not only did they serve practical purposes but, together, they told a story of Jesus’ life well before He was ever relatable, vulnerable, and human in a full sense.

Moreover, in keeping with the spirit of navigation, these wise men traveled quite a distance—likely through rugged terrain and possibly treacherous conditions. Their journey is a compelling testament to the lengths people will go when compelled by hope and truth. This little trek provides some good food for thought: What journeys are we willing to undertake in pursuit of something greater?