1 One there is above all others,
Well deserves the name of Friend;
His is love beyond a brother’s,
Costly, free, and knows no end:
They who once His kindness prove
Find it everlasting love!

2 Which of all our friends to save us,
Could or would have shed their blood?
But this Saviour died to have us
Reconciled in Him to God:
This was boundless love indeed;
Jesus is a Friend in need.

3 When He lived on earth abasèd,
"Friend of sinners" was His name;
Now, above all glory raisèd,
He rejoices in the same:
Still He calls them brethren, friends,
And to all their wants attends.

4 O for grace our hearts to soften!
Teach us, Lord, at length to love.
We, alas! forget too often,
What a Friend we have above:
But, when home our souls are brought,
We will love Thee as we ought.

Amen.