2 Corinthians 1: Changing Plans
Monday, August 25, 2025
If we want to live in relationship with others, we will find it necessary to change our plans; sometimes this is quite easy to do and at other times we suffer change at great cost. Events occur not as we would wish them. They often take on a life of their own. In today’s reading we have the opportunity to examine a model for authentic accommodation in relationship with others. When we make room for God in every connection we make with others, we have the guarantee of God’s simplicity, sincerity, and grace. We can be confident that no matter the change required of us, we will flourish and thrive.
When we read Paul’s two letters to the church in Corinth, we see the importance of flexibility and constancy in all relationships. While it is important to remain authentic and faithful, it is also essential to allow for some give and take as circumstances require. As we read through these epistles, it is clear that there are some disagreements and differences of opinion that have the potential to create permanent rifts. Important connections have been established and nurtured; breaches must be bridged. Cleverly, or perhaps by God’s grace, Paul begins with himself. “Since Paul’s own conduct will be under discussion here, he prefaces this section with a statement about his habitual behavior and attitude toward the community. He protests his openness, single-mindedness, and conformity to God’s grace; he hopes that his relationship with them will be marked by mutual understanding and pride, which will constantly increase until it reaches its climax at the judgment.” (Senior 277) As we read the opening chapter of 2 Corinthians we understand that a change of plans has caused anxiety and upset. Paul addresses the problem by beginning with himself – and by falling back on God.
Simplicity, sincerity, and the grace of God: These qualities are given to us by God the Father; these traits are modeled for us by Jesus; these virtues are renewed in us by the Spirit.
When we must change plans we must keep things simple. Adding more jumble to an already stressed schedule does us and those we work and live with nothing but harm.
When we must change plans we must be honest. It is important to take the time to examine motives and look for hidden agendas. Any plan that is not genuine is not needed. Any plan that comes from deceit brings ruin.
When we must change plans we must do so with good will, considering the common benefit. When a community must alter plans to please only one or two of its members, morale plummets and cooperation disappears.
Simplicity, sincerity, and the grace of God. Paul outlines for us the opening step in bridging a rift between colleagues, friends or loved ones. We begin with ourselves. And we look for God’s plainness. We look for God’s straightforwardness. We look for God’s beauty. We look for God’s blessing in all we say and do.
A re-post from August 2, 2011.
Senior, Donald, ed. THE CATHOLIC STUDY BIBLE. New York, Oxford University Press, 1990. 277. Print.
Images from: https://lisanotes.com/when-plans-change/ and https://barbroose.com/will-you-allow-god-to-change-your-plans/
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