Rising from the Ashes: Encouragement for LA Friends

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.

The book of Ezra–Nehemiah covers the period from the fall of Babylon in 539 BCE to the second half of the 5th century BCE. It tells the story of the successive missions to Jerusalem of Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, and their efforts to restore the Temple, reintroduce the Torah, and create a purified Jewish community. The book is divided into three main stories: the initial return and rebuilding of the Temple, Ezra's mission to teach the laws of God, and Nehemiah's mission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. The narrative highlights God's use of foreign rulers for Israel's sake, opposition from foreign neighbors, and the need to separate Israel from foreign influences to preserve the purity of the people of God.