It’s Olympic season again, and soon the torch will be lit, the village occupied, and competition begun. But O for the chance to see again characters like Eric the Eel and Eddie the Eagle. Alas, they are no longer allowed to compete. Once upon a time, the person who won nationals had the right to enter Olympic competition, but now a person needs to attain a certain time or distance or milestone or score. Pity.

And why? Because the Olympic movement can’t cope with someone who comes last, even if they are trying to do their best? Because of embarrassment at someone who looks a bit clumsy or less coordinated than some of the super elites? So what, if they’re not as perfect or polished as others. So what, if there are twenty people in another nation who can better them. So what, if the officials have to wait an extra minute until the person eventually finishes the race.

Thankfully in the Faith there is the principle of not only tolerating weakness, but protecting it. Paul wrote to a church who was tempted to embrace the spirit of the new olympia, to correct its misguided preference for the flashiest, and explained that the weaker members of the church are just as important and are to be protected. So yes, there is Peter the Apostle, and Stephen the Deacon, and Philip the Evangelist, but there is also room for Eric the morning tea helper and Eddie who serves on the mowing roster.