In an elaborate display of vanity, Herod appeared before a large gathering, wearing a robe of silver reflecting the sun as he delivered a speech designed to flatter himself. A contingent from Tyre and Sidon wanting more favorable trade, instigated an acclamation shouting that Herod was more than mortal, he was a god. Herod with a Jewish background knew better, but he didn’t redirect any of the praise to God. An angel of the Lord struck Herod with an incurable disease in which he was eaten by worms. [Reflection is based on the Bible Reference – Acts 12:19b-23]