Honor for the Last Full Measure of Devotion

This Memorial Day letter from David Cerullo reminds us that the freedoms we cherish were secured by those who gave everything to defend them. Inspired by Lincoln’s words at Gettysburg, we pause to show honor for the last full measure of devotion—recognizing the courage of those who laid down their lives and the families who bear that sacrifice. May we never take their gift lightly and remain devoted to the cause for which they died.

At the dedication of the National Cemetery at Gettysburg, Abraham Lincoln gave meaning to the carnage that was America’s Civil War.

“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 that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom…”

As we celebrate Memorial Day, we recognize these words are just as true today for those who have fallen throughout our history for the cause of defending freedom.

We honor the tremendous sacrifices made by those who have volunteered to serve our country and especially by those who have paid the ultimate price and for their families.

The Bible says: “By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren” (1 John 3:16).

Thank God for the freedom we have to worship God and to live our lives as we choose. We honor those who bought and paid for that freedom with their lives in the past, for those who protect it in the present, and those who will defend it in the future.

God bless you,

David Cerullo

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