212.  The Sinner’s Friend

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.

2
Which of all our friends, to save us,
Could or would have shed his blood?
But our Saviour died to have us
Reconciled in him to God.

3
When he lived on earth abased,
Friend of sinners was his name;
Now above all glory raised,
He rejoices in the same.