Playing often connotes frivolity. But James Evans, in this insightful reflection, offers another view: playing lies at the heart of Christian faith in the triune God. Through a close examination of African-American literature and experience, and a re-examination of basic doctrinal affirmations, Evans recovers play as a subversive and even revolutionary activity, a practice of faith that gives life in the midst of structures and authorities that suffocate. In this light, Jesus becomes the political, cultural and religious player who redeems by changing the game so that it no longer excludes but instead gives life. God creates us for freedom in a field of play. The Spirit summons us toward God's Reign, where the freedom of play never ends. Playing, in this view, is hardly frivolous, but the pulse of life itself. Evans invites us to play as we live and work.

"This clear and incisive little book is a gem, a real tour de force! With homely wit and theological sophistication, James Evans calls us out to the joy of play!"
—M. Shawn Copeland
Theology Department
Boston College