READ: MATTHEW 2:1-18; 27:27-54 Two hills stood in ancient Israel. One was the highest peak in the Judean desert where King Herod the Great built his Herodium Palace, a lavish monument to his own fame and military triumphs. The other hill was Golgotha, the “Place of the Skull,” where Jesus—mockingly called the “king of the Jews” was crucified (Matthew 27:29, 33). The Herodium was so massive it took 200 white marble steps to reach the top. Designed for the king’s enjoyment, it was fitted with Roman baths, a theatre, and other comforts fit for royalty. Herod built more grandiose palaces and fortresses in Caesarea Maritima, Jericho, Masada and other places. He craved the opulence, power, and control that he believed would earn him the world’s admiration and respect. Herod was successful in many ways, but in his megalomaniac paranoia, he put to death anyone he perceived to be a threat to his rule: his own family members, Jewish religious leaders, and even innocent infant boys. Her...