Background Notes:

 The story of Nicodemus’ questions to Jesus (John 3: 1-15) served as the textual basis for this somewhat atypical hymn.  He was confused by the concept of rebirth, questioned the veracity of Jesus’ words, yet endeavored to understand.  In other texts, we also see the disciples questioning as well as doubting, straying, and returning. Importantly, however, they also served irrespective of their questions or certitude.  This, then, is the principle message of this hymn: belief comprises a range of activity, but only some of it feels steadfast and unwavering. By recognizing other aspects of belief such as times of searching, reflecting, or doubting, we hope to give voice to realities and complexities of what it means to have belief. Cooper used this as an opportunity to explore musical progressions based more in the jazz medium, meant to convey the sometimes lonely questions we privately wrestle with in our faith journey.