In 1965, John Coltrane handed eleven musicians some basic material, walked into the studio, and let them play. The result was chaos and brilliance. The album was called “Ascension.” The disciples at Jesus’ Ascension knew something of that feeling - Jesus had given them everything they needed, then disappeared into a cloud. They stood there staring, catching flies in mouths agape. We know the feeling. This Sunday, as we baptize, receive, and send our confirmands into the world, we'll sit with that same ascension anxiety - and discover that Jesus has already given them (and us) everything needed to follow him faithfully into the chaos.

In other news: I haven’t ever been more proud of a graphic than I am of this one. It’s truly a “if you can’t please yourself” moment. Google Coltrane’s Ascension album and you’ll know why!