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.