Our Bible Reading of the Day is Nehemiah 2:1–8; 12:27–43. King Cyrus of Persia plans to [re]build a house for the Lord in Jerusalem. When the temple is complete, King Artaxerxes sends Ezra as priest and scribe to teach and lead the people. While serving in the household of Artaxerxes, Nehemiah convinces the king to send him to Jerusalem to repair the city wall. Despite opposition from Israel’s neighbors, repairs are completed in record time. Nehemiah, Ezra, and the priests lead the people in a joyous rededication of the wall. As God’s people return to the Promised Land after a long and tragic exile, God demonstrates His faithfulness and points to even greater restoration in the Last Day.