Author: John Newton Hymnal: Laudes Domini #204 (1888) Scripture: John 13:1 First Line: One there is above all others Lyrics: 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 his blood?
But our Jesus 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 abased,
"Friend of sinners" was his name;
Now above all glories raised,
He rejoices in the same;
Still he calls them brethren, friends,
And to all their wants attends.
4 Could we bear from one another
What he daily bears from us?
Yet this glorious Friend and Brother
Loves us though we treat him thus:
Though for good we render ill,
He accounts us brethren still.
5 Oh, 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. Topics: Christ Character of; Christ Example of; Christ Friend; Christ Humanity of; Christ Life on the Earth; Christ Love of; Conformity; Christ Compassion of Languages: English Tune Title: MURIEL
"Friend of Sinners"