Sunday Reflections: Last Full Measure of Devotion
Elisa and I are on the road visiting family graves and remembering those whose light has helped make us who we are. For today’s Sunday Reflection we share this beautiful rendition of the Last Full Measure of Devotion performed by the United States Marine Orchestra at the funeral services for President George H.W. Bush.
The lyrics of this sacred hymn were inspired by this solemn phrase spoken by President Abraham Lincoln.
“It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us – that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion – that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain…”
President Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address, November 1863
As you remember this Memorial Day weekend, please also pause to remember those who paid the last full measure of devotion that we may enjoy the blessing of remembering those we love the most.
LAST FULL MEASURE OF DEVOTION
There are names that shine like beacons in the night
The Patriots whose vision gave us meaning
Who kept the lamp of freedom burning bright
There are those that paid the last and final price
Who were called upon by chance, or desperate circumstance
To make the ultimate sacrifice
And in thanks for guaranteeing our tomorrow
The last full measure of devotion
That’s what they gave to the cause
We honor them forever and keep alive their story
Pay tribute to their lives and give them all the glory
The last full measure of devotion
They gave themselves to serve the greater need
And came back home alive
They join in praise of comrades who were slain
And highly resolved, most highly resolved
That these dead shall not have died in vain
