Ask the Pastor
By Pastor Scott Denham of Harvest Fellowship, Shambaugh, IA
Clarinda Herald Journal Publication Date : 01/09/2008

Last Minute Conversion

“If the day before I die, I accept the Lord, will I go to heaven or will I go to hell?”

You would go to heaven, but think of all that you would miss! You would have no time to correct the impact of your wrongs. You would have no opportunity to leave the legacy of a godly life. You would have not opportunity to experience the joys of a life lived for God.

The story of the thief on the cross in Luke 2:40-43 gives us great hope of God’s 11th hour mercy. Remember, there were two thieves crucified alongside of Jesus. They both mocked Christ, but one, having a change of heart, says to the other thief, “Don't you fear God? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve.” Then he turns to Jesus and says: “Remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

Oh, how great is the love of God! This thief had no time to be baptized, or to make up for past wrongs. Nonetheless, the Savior saw his heart. Jesus sees his genuine repentance and faith, and it is enough, for Jesus promises him: “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.”

I have witnessed death-bed conversions, and I’ve heard of many more. The story usually goes something like this: “So-n-so” was a stubborn unbeliever, but in his final hours, seeing eternity before him, he relented, believed, and was saved. I do rejoice in God’s faithfulness and mercy to all who call upon him (Rom 10:13), but cannot help but feel a little sad for all they have missed.

It is significant to mention that, statistically, many people do not have time to prepare for their own death. They are killed in an accident, die of a first-event heart attack, or lapse into unconsciousness—without any opportunity to prepare them for the life to come. Since death so often comes unannounced, expectation of a death-bed conversion may prove an empty hope. It is better by far to serve God now.

To answer your question: indeed all sinners are welcomed by the Savior, no matter when they come. But consider this: You will have no time to right any of your own wrongs, nor will you have time to impart to your children, family, and friends the faith that will assure your gathering together “on the other side.”

Better to “choose today” (Josh 24:15) to follow the Lord. “Today is the day of salvation” (2 Cor 6:2). Any other plan is not worth the risk.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)