by Melissa Sharp
“And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, ‘Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.’” Acts 1:10–11
In a story published by Fox 21 titled “Joel Reichow Becomes First Runner to Win Grandma’s Half and Full Marathon”, the writer highlighted a historic accomplishment. Reichow, an American runner, made history by becoming the first to win both Grandma’s half marathon (2023) and full marathon (2024). His finishing time of 2:11:58 marked a significant moment—not just for him, but for the race’s legacy. It was called a “historic day”—a day marked by achievement, significance, and something important and worth remembering.
But while athletic milestones and human records may be celebrated, there are two days in Scripture that truly define “historic” not just for a moment, but for all eternity.
The first: The day Jesus ascended into heaven, witnessed by His disciples.
The second: The day Jesus will return, just as He promised.
“But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.” Matthew 24:36
We don’t know when this second historic event will occur—but we know it will. Scripture says it will happen “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.” (1 Corinthians 15:52) And only those who have truly placed their faith in Jesus—not merely believed in Him intellectually, but surrendered to Him for salvation—will be caught up to meet Him in the air.
That day will be a joyful reunion for some—and a terrifying awakening for others.
Many will be left behind because they delayed the decision that matters most: surrendering to Jesus Christ as Lord. Jesus’ return will be one of the most important events in all of human history—and yet so many are unprepared. This world is rapidly aligning with the signs foretold in Scripture: deception, chaos, moral decay, wars, and natural disasters. The clock is ticking.
So let me ask you personally: Has the most important day in YOUR history happened?
Meaning—Have you been born again? Are you confident you’ll be among those who meet Jesus in the air—or are you hoping to “get right” with God later? The problem with “later” is that it often becomes never. You cannot afford to gamble with eternity.
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2
Don’t wait for more signs.
Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment.
Don’t wait until you feel ready.
Jesus is calling now.
If you haven’t made the decision to trust Jesus fully—to believe that He died for your sins, rose again, and offers you eternal life—then surrender to Him now. If you don’t know how—go to our salvation page or email us and we will set up a time to talk!
Eternity is longer than we can fathom, and where you spend it depends on what you do with Jesus.
Reflection Thought:
If Jesus returned today, would you be taken with Him or—left behind? Examine your heart honestly—and respond to God’s invitation without delay.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the Bible to lead, guide, direct, and prepare us. Lord, help us to understand that the return of Jesus is imminent and that we must be found ready or we will be left behind. Father, help us to also grasp just how long eternity is and be diligent to ensure that all those we know hear the Gospel so they have the guarantee of spending eternal life in heaven rather than hell. It’s in Your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!
Melissa Sharp is an ultra runner and running coach who has completed more than 100 marathons and ultra marathons. Melissa has learned how to keep running the race of life for the glory of Christ even though she endured decades of domestic abuse. Melissa is a survivor. Through her daily blog thejoyfilledrunner she inspires others to live in the strength of Christ.
