Aggie Muster, 2021

 

And he [Jesus] took a cup, and when he had given thanks he said, “Take this, and divide it among yourselves. For I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” (Luke 22:17-20 ESV).

 

Aggie Muster… it is a long standing tradition for both students and former students of Texas A&M University. It has a wonderfully rich history. Aggies gathered together on June 26, 1883, to live over again their college days, the victories and defeats won and lost upon the drill field and in the classroom. By April 21, 1903, this annual gathering evolved into a celebration of Texas Independence on San Jacinto Day. These early meetings included field games and banquets for Aggies to reflect and celebrate their memories of Aggieland. “Let every alumni answer a roll call,” wrote the Former Students. It was not until 1922, however, that April 21 became the official day of events for all Aggies; thus, the annual tradition of Muster was born. The April 15, 1923, Texas Aggie urged, “If there is an A&M man in one hundred miles of you, you are expected to get together, eat a little, and live over the days you spent at the A&M College of Texas.”

 

Still remembering and honoring the time spent in Aggieland, the tradition of Muster has grown in strength, in meaning, and in spirit. By 1929, the meetings had spread worldwide, and in 1942 Aggie Muster gained international recognition. Twenty-five men, led by General George Moore ’08, Mustered during the Japanese siege of the Philippine island of Corregidor. Knowing that Muster might soon be called for them, these Aggies embodied the commitment, dedication, and friendship that is the essence of the Aggie Spirit. They risked their lives to honor their beliefs and values. That small group of Aggies on an outpost during World War II inspired what has developed into one of the most reverent of traditions. This year one of my classmates, General (Retired) T. Michael Moseley ’71, USAF, is the keynote speaker for the 2021 campus Muster ceremony at Texas A&M University.  For those interested in this solemn tradition you may live stream it at https://musterlive.aggienetwork.com/ at 7pm tonight.

 

You may be asking what does this have to do with our reading today. It is taken from Luke’s Gospel on the night of Jesus’ arrest. He gathered His comrades for the last time before His death and ultimate resurrection. It is interesting that Jesus instructed them to “do this in remembrance of me”. Much has been said about the “grace” that accompanies the observance of this sacrificial act. While I do not hold to some of the beliefs of some Christian denomination, I do believe there is always grace conveyed to us when we remember those who hold a special place in our hearts. Of course, Jesus is at the top of this list. What He did on our behalf is nothing short of miraculous. He has redeemed us from our sins and the penalty of death. Celebrate your freedom through Jesus today!