Too Bad? Too Late?

Christopher Hitchens was a famous atheist who enthusiastically debated believers in Christ. When he was dying of cancer, he announced that anyone who heard that he had converted to Jesus on his deathbed should take that as proof that he had lost his mind. After Christopher died, a debate opponent and friend noted that Hitchens had pre-emptively warned his followers because he knew that in the face of death he might despair and turn to Christ. And who knows? He might have. A person can fight God his entire life and still be mercifully saved with seconds to spare. It has happened before.

The thief on the cross had led a wicked life. He told his fellow criminal, “We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man [Jesus] hasn’t done anything wrong” (Luke 23:41). Now he was down to his final, excruciating hours, in which his physical agony threatened to distract from his greater spiritual need and he was wasting precious minutes. He had initially joined the others who were mocking and yelling insults at Jesus (Mark 15:32). But as he hung on the cross, close to death, he turned and looked at his last chance. He said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom” (Luke 23:42).

God delights in saving people, including those who have run out of time. Instead of focusing on what we have done wrong, let us look to Jesus.

What are your biggest regrets? Why might you think you are unforgivable?

Dear Jesus, I am looking at You and You alone, for only You can truly save me.