Consumed

Today’s reading: Acts 12:1-23

“...an angel of the Lord struck Herod with a sickness, because he accepted the people’s worship instead of giving the glory to God. So he was consumed with worms and died.” - Acts 12:23‬

This exact historical event was also recorded by first century Jewish historian, Josephus (Ant. 19:343–350).  He mentions that Herod was “clad in a glittering silver garment” — making it clear that he was so deceived as to think he was a god. To make things worse, he had the ability to revoke access to food.

Josephus also mentions that the pains from this sickness lasted for five days before he died.

Now, we may not be this narcissistic, but we all have had to battle with our own egos. There is something about the sinful nature within us that, if allowed to go on for too long, makes us want to step on others who are “beneath” us or stand in our way to supposed greatness.

Worship is a daily recognition of who is actually in charge.

Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever. - Psalm 136:2