I believe William Steig, the author of Sylvester and the Magic Pebble, perhaps due to his Jewish heritage, was inspired by God to write this book. Sylvester ‘accidentally’ finds himself turned into a stone in a field, somewhat aware of his surrounding but unable to communicate with anyone or anything. Finally, his parents, who loved him much, come along and happen to state while picnicking by him (unbeknownst to them), that they wish they could have their son back; whereupon Sylvester magically reappears before them, and they are united in bliss.
Upon reflection, this is what happens when some of us find ourselves in Sheol, or Hades, awaiting the End Time. We can pray certain people out of Sheol, and this is not knowledge God only gives to some of us. It is revealed clearly in the Book of Ezekiel.
Prayers for the dead were practiced by many early Christians and Jews. Catholics and Mormons still pray for the dead today. Here is a sample prayer from Saint Basil:
Saint Basil the Great († 379), a saint of undivided Christianity, writes in his Third Kneeling Prayer at Pentecost O Christ our God…(who) on this all-perfect and saving Feast, art graciously pleased to accept propitiatory prayers for those who are imprisoned in hades, promising unto us who are held in bondage great hope of release from the vilenes that doth hinder us and did hinder them … send down Thy consolation… and establish their souls in the mansions of the Just; and graciously vouchsafe unto them peace and pardon; for not the dead shall praise thee, O Lord, neither shall they who are in Hell make bold to offer unto thee confession. But we who are living will bless thee, and will pray, and offer unto thee propitiatory prayers and sacrifices for their souls.[10]
Who can be prayed into Heaven? And who can pray someone into Heaven? Simply those who have loved and been loved. If they have lived a life without love, not known the Lord, and died, they have little chance, even with prayer, to make it out of Hades. However, if they have loved, been loved, and are prayed for by those of us who love, God will lift them up as His will be done.
Praise You for this knowledge, LORD. ❤
~Song of Mary~ 