The Light and the Glory (adult)

Anna Siviter, by weaving the rich tapestry of the ancient Persian court as a backdrop for the story of Artaxerxes’ noble cup bearer, allows us to grasp the deep significance of Nehemiah’s devotion to God, to Jerusalem and to his people.

Tirzah’s people, the Israelites, have been in slavery to the Egyptians for many years. Tirzah and her lame brother, Oren, help gather straw to make bricks. She observes the suffering of her people and the injustices that are done to them by the Egyptian police. Moses begs Pharaoh to let them go, but Pharaoh makes them work harder.

One night, when the plague of death strikes down Pharaoh’s own son, he allows the Israelites to flee on foot, only to pursue them with horses and chariots. He believes he will have them trapped between the mountains and the sea, but God miraculously delivers them. The Israelites celebrate with a song of hope and victory. Tirzah befriends a young Egyptian girl who has fled with them, even though others treat her badly. In spite of hardship and disappointment, Tirzah and her family keep trusting Yahweh to carry them through.

This book covers the events of world history with an emphasis on European and American culture since the Reformation. Each chapter traces a particular theme within a particular time period. The principal themes include the history of Christianity and philosophy with their results in culture, politics, economics, society, science, and technology. A time line at the beginning of each chapter will help the reader to see the chronological relationships between the events discussed in the text. Throughout the text, particular points of interest, focusing on specific individuals and events, provide further information. Maps and photographs, as well as artwork of a particular period, add to the overall impact of the book. Thought-provoking questions given at the end of each chapter will encourage students to think through the Christian implications of the material and its relevance for today’s world. In addition, a list of important words and concepts at the end of the chapter will aid the student in focusing on the most significant ideas discussed in the chapter. Suggested projects can also enliven the topics being covered as a particular activity is carried out by an individual or a class. A reading list is provided to suggest resources for further study; an extensive index will also enable the student to use the book for reference in years to come.