The wedding of my daughter, Comfort, was a golden opportunity to have a family get-together. The last time that happened was four years ago. I referred to some past events when the children were younger. Specifically, I recalled when my first two sons were undergraduate students. One day, they asked me to increase their allowance to a “livable” stipend. Whatever that meant! They are now working and often complain about various financial obligations. I reminded them of when they asked for more allowance, and to compare it with their present situations. One of them said, “Dad, I have been to the other end of the road; and my perspective has changed”.

The rich man in Luke 16 also had his perspective changed but rather lately. He had no time for God nor regard for man while on earth. He later died and found himself in hell. That was the only time he wanted to effect changes, but it was too late. He later requested Abraham to send Lazarus from heaven to earth to warn his five brothers. His request was turned down, as we see in our text. There are anointed men to give direction and to instruct in matters about life and godliness. It would be too late and of no consequence to cross to the other side before correcting our perspective.