"The second option is far more enlightening as it provides information on when Christ will see the person in paradise. The first option states that which is blatantly obvious and hence superfluous, and hence the less likely of the options. "
Except the second option didn't happen .. unless as some propose, on death Jesus immediately popped quickly into Paradise and had a quick cuppa with the thief, then exited back down into his body ready for burial and subsequent extended 43 day sojourn on Earth before again departing.
The first option "telling you today" is superfluous but could be using "today" as emphasis.
As always, Christians can pick according to their requirements !!
