Judith 1-7

The Book of Judith begins with a long explanation of the geopolitical situation in this part of the world. Nineveh is the regional superpower, and Nebuchadnezzar is its king. Holofernes is the general commanding of Nebuchadnezzar's army. At Nebuchadnezzar's direction, Holofernes sets out to conquer the other peoples of the region. Some are handily defeated in battle, while others simply surrender due to Holofernes' reputation. The Israelites lay in the path of destruction, but they cry out fervently to the Lord for deliverance. The Lord heard their cry and had regard for their distress.

Achior, leader of the Ammonites (allies of Nebuchadnezzar), tries to warn Holofernes about the strength of the Israelites' God. But he only incurs Holofernes' anger with his warning, and is exiled, with the promise that he will be killed once Holfernes conquers the Israelites. Exiled among the Israelites in Bethulia, Achior tells them what has come to pass, and they fall prostrate and worship God and call upon Him for help. Holofernes begins the siege of Bethulia, cutting off the water supply in an attempt to force the Israelites to surrender. This continues for 34 days, and all the cisterns run dry. The Israelites gather to contemplate surrender, but Uzziah, one of the rulers of Bethulia, urges them to trust the Lord and hang on for five more days. They agree to trust the Lord a little longer and wait in hope for His mercy.

Ezra 1-6

The Chronicler continues his narrative of post-exile Israel in this book. The remnant of Israel descending from those captured by Nebuchadnezzar and taken to Babylon are freed by King Cyrus. Cyrus virtually commands them to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple of the Lord. The narrative recounts a census taken at the time, which reveals just how small this group of believers has been reduced to. But this group resolutely sets about rebuilding the temple--hiring skilled laborers and arranging for the delivery of the necessary raw materials. Over the years, there is interference from citizens and government officials, until finally King Darius, decades after Cyrus, acknowledges the earlier king's original decree and reiterates it in a decree of his own. Thus ensured royal protection and endorsement, and bolstered by the support of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, the people rebuild the altar of the Lord. This is cause for much joy and thanksgiving, and the Chronicler describes an especially joyful Passover celebration as the rebuilding continues.