There is a scenario in the scriptures of Jesus on the cross with two other men anchored on each side. In his anger and suffering, one of them cried out, "if you be the Christ, save yourself and us." The guy on the other side of Jesus said, “we deserve to be here but not this guy." He recognized who Jesus was and said to him “when you get ready to go into your Kingdom can I come with you?” and Jesus said to him,” [yes], today you will be with me in paradise." This guy had a clear picture of where he was and what was about to take place with his soul. He knew that he was lost. Jesus was his invitation to eternal life and heaven.
Why is it that one of the two men saw clearly what was before him and the other man did not? I do not know. However, what we can say is that one of the men at death's door was confused, blinded, and angry about what next and this last opportunity to be saved. We also are convinced that we need to continue to pray for the salvation of our unsaved loved ones so that by faith, a clear picture of life and the next life will be available even at the point of death. At the point of last breath, pray that Jesus will reveal himself to your loved one before their death. Know that spiritual blindness and confusion can be very present at the time of death, so this prayer by faith is essential.
Prayer
Lord, we pray for those people who are closest to hell. Let salvation be available just as it was available to the thieves on the cross according to Luke 23:43, in Jesus' name, Amen.
Full Passage of Scripture Luke 23: 39-40
39 If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.
40 But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?
41 And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.
42 And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.
43 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, today shalt thou be with me in paradise.
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