"We Thank Thee, Jesus, Dearest Friend"

                               by Unknown

           Translated by Matthias Loy, 1828-1915

                                 Text From:

                      THE LUTHERAN HYMNAL

        (St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 1941)







        1. We thank Thee, Jesus, dearest Friend,

        That Thou didst into heaven ascend.

        O blessed Savior, bid us live

        And strength to soul and body give.

        Hallelujah!



        2. Ascended to His throne on high,

        Hid from our sight, yet always nigh;

        He rules and reigns at God's right hand

        And has all power at His command.

        Hallelujah!



        3. The man who trusts in Him is blest

        And finds in Him eternal rest;

        This world's allurements we despise

        And fix on Christ alone our eyes.

        Hallelujah!



        4. We therefore heartily rejoice

        And sing His praise with cheerful voice;

        He captive led captivity,

        From bitter death He set us free.

        Hallelujah!



        5. Through Him we heirs of heaven are made;

        O Brother, Christ, extend Thine aid

        That we may firmly trust in Thee

        And through Thee live eternally.

        Hallelujah!



        


        Notes:

        Hymn #223 from The Lutheran Hymnal

        Text: Eph. 4:8

        Author: Unknown, 1607, cento.

        Translated by: Matthias Loy, 1880, alt.

        Titled: "Wir danken dir, Herr Jesu Christ"

        Tune: "Erschienen ist"

        Composer: Nikolaus Herman, 1560