Day 268 (Ezra 7-10) - Year 7

The Book of Nehemiah continues the story of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon, focusing on the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. Nehemiah's leadership and determination in the face of opposition highlight the importance of perseverance and faith. The book emphasizes the significance of community and the restoration of God's people. Nehemiah's commitment to justice and his efforts to protect the vulnerable demonstrate the importance of social responsibility. The book's narrative provides a powerful example of faith, leadership, and the restoration of a community.

Written by Henry Adams in 1884, 'Esther' is a novel that delves into the complexities of a modern, rationalist woman's response to romantic and religious pressures. The story follows Esther Dudley, a sophisticated and free-thinking woman, as she navigates her feelings for Reverend Stephen Hazard, a charismatic and high-minded preacher. The novel is set against a backdrop of debates about religion, science, art, and poetry, and it reflects Adams' exploration of the 'woman question' of his time. Esther's character is partly based on Adams' wife, Clover, and the novel touches on themes of bereavement, intellectual curiosity, and the struggle for independence in a society dominated by traditional values.