There marches through the centuries The martyrs of the cross All those who choose to follow Christ To suffer any loss And though their journey led them Through the shadow lands of death The song of their commitment They rehearsed with every breath I will serve the Lord I will serve the Lord, my God And if God should choose, and my life I lose Though my foe may slay me, I will serve the Lord Uncertain days now echo back That strong and urgent strain To count the cost, take up the cross And join in the refrain For should our journey lead us Through the shadow lands of death May this be our hearts resolve As long as we have breath I will serve the Lord I will serve the Lord, my God And if God should choose, and my life I lose Though my foe may slay me, I will serve the Lord The honor and the privilege ours With wounds we suffer by His side And to the glory of the Lord Those sacred scars We bear with pride I will serve the Lord I will serve the Lord, my God And if God should choose, and my life I lose Though my foe may slay me, I will serve the Lord Though my foe may slay me I will serve the Lord