Liturgy as play
Play is meaningful action that does not need to seek its meaning in some achievement exterior to itself. It is what we do because we do not have to. It is action to which the future opens as gift rather than as burden. The life of the Trinity is sheer play. As play with the Trinity, liturgy is anticipation of life in the Fulfillment–the closest we get to freedom. It must be admitted that liturgy-as-play is a rather rare occurrence in America’s recognized churches.
Robert W. Jenson, Story and Promise: A Brief Theology of the Gospel about Jesus (Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1973) 184.
Like this:
Categories: Liturgical Theology, Quotes, Robert W. Jenson
I like this. It seems like a sort of plea for humble interaction with theology/dogma. Humble participation sees the fulfillment of a doctrine or ritual’s transformational potential. Perhaps that playful interaction is part of what should be recognized as being sacred. This is better than codifying our religious rituals into a tedious tradition that is followed ‘because it has always been done that way.’ I’m sure this is part of what Jenson is referring to in the last sentence.
“…The life of the Trinity is sheer play. As play with the Trinity, liturgy is anticipation of life in the Fulfillment–the closest we get to freedom. It must be admitted that liturgy-as-play is a rather rare occurrence in America’s recognized churches…”
I thought liturgy meant ‘work…’
Work and play may become indistinguishable in God’s economy.
I like your comment Mike. Surely theology should drive from liturgy-as-play, which I think must be a form of humble interaction. Good point.