Of Such Is The Kingdom, A Novel of Biblical Times in 3 parts

Herodius arrived at the palace early the next day.  After a few kisses, Herod asked her, “So, my dear, have you informed Philip of our plans?”

“Yes, as a matter of fact, just the other night.  But it seems he was already aware of them.  The whole thing is public gossip by now, you know.”

“So it is, which is why we must finalize our plans as quickly as possible.  But, tell me, what did the old goat say?”

“Philip?  Ah, he was somewhat surprised, that’s about all.  But he said he wouldn’t divorce me.  His marriage to me gives him too much respectability.”

“Well, then, my dear, you shall have the distinct honor of being one the few women around these parts who has two husbands.  What do you think of that?”

She sighed.  “It shall probably keep me quite busy.  But it shall be worth it, to be with you.  Since you said this is the only way, because of that scoundrel, Manaheem, then let it be.  But, who will marry us, under these conditions?”

“Don’t worry about that, my dear.  I have the officials here in my control.  Now, let me call in the servants so we can finalize all the plans and get the invitations out.”  Herod got up from the throne and was going to pull the bell for the servants, when, from the window, he heard something strange coming from the palace lawn below.

“But, what is that?”

“What?”

“That noise!  Don’t you hear it?”  Going to the window, he opened it and looked out.  To his amazement, he saw a small crowd gathered below, listening to a strange man in camels’ hair.  The man was shouting for everyone to repent of their sins.

“I don’t care who you are,” the preacher was saying, “whether pauper or king, you will not be able to get away with sin.  You must repent now, and believe in the one whom the LORD has sent.”

By this time, Herodius had joined Herod at the window.  Turning to her, Herod asked, “What is this?  Why is this lunatic shouting on my front lawn?  Where are my guards?”

“It appears,” she noted, “that they are also listening to the mad man.”

“Ah yes, I see them.”  He yelled to the guards.  “Guards!  Why do you allow this lunatic to speak on the palace grounds?”

Before the guards could answer, John turned his head upward, cupped his hands and shouted, “Ah, Herod Antipas!  I have somewhat especially to say to you.”

Herod laughed. “Do you now?  Well, alright. Say on then.”

“But,” whispered Herodius, “why don’t you just have him thrown out and be done with it?”

“Quiet, dear!  I’d like to hear what he has to say.”

John had already begun.  “Herod Antipas, your sin is great in the eyes of the LORD.  You have sent away your lovely and faithful wife of many years, and have been living with the wife of your brother, Philip.  This adulterous relationship is a terrible sin in the sight of the LORD God almighty.  Now you intend to make matters worse by marrying your brother’s wife.  This marriage is folly! What good will it do?  You will be a bigamist and so will she.  Repent of this sinful relationship and this folly, Herod Antipas!  Repent before it’s too late!”

During this speech, Herod’s expression had gradually turned from one of amusement, to one of anger.  Suddenly he exploded with rage.  “You’re mad!  How dare you insult your king, so?”

“Your own actions have insulted you, Herod Antipas, and it is not I but the LORD God Almighty who accuses you.”

“Is that so?” yelled Herod.  “Well, let’s see if the LORD God Almighty comes to your aid.  Guards!  Arrest this man!  Throw him in the dungeon.  We’ll see how well he preaches from there!”