On October 15, 1989, Los Angeles King Wayne Gretzky broke Gordie Howe’s points record (1,850) in a game against the Edmonton Oilers.

Gordie Howe made a speech, and then was presented with gifts: a 1.851-carat diamond bracelet (with diamonds spelling out “1,851” across its face) from his old teammates, a crystal hologram engraved with his picture from the Kings, and a carved silver tea tray from the league. By the time Gretzky retired at the end of the 1998-99 season, he held or shared 61 NHL records. In all, he scored 894 goals and tallied 1,963 assists for 2,857 points in 1,487 games.

It would be lovely if we all received gifts and thunderous applause when we did something great in our lives. But most of the time, we have simple little victories and those are rarely lauded. But if you will “not grow weary” (Galatians 6:9), then you’ll receive the best reward when the Father says, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord” (Matthew 25:21). 

Kyle Campbell