Friendship with Jesus

A friend of Jesus! O what bliss
That one so vile as I
Should ever have a Friend like this
To lead me to the sky!

Refrain

Friendship with Jesus!
Fellowship divine!
O what blessèd, sweet communion!
Jesus is a Friend of mine.

A Friend when other friendships cease,
A Friend when others fail,
A Friend Who gives me joy and peace,
A Friend when foes assail!

Refrain

A Friend when sickness lays me low,
A Friend when death draws near,
A Friend as through the vale I go,
A Friend to help and cheer!

Refrain

A Friend when life’s short race is o’er
A Friend when earth is past,
A Friend to meet on Heaven’s shore,
A Friend when home at last!

Refrain

Author: Joseph C. Ludgate

Year: 1898

The hymn "Friendship with Jesus" (also known by its first line) is most commonly attributed to Joseph C. Ludgate, who wrote both words and music. It first appeared in publications around 1898. No widely recognized alternate attributions exist.