One thing I above all others cherish,

For one thing I long and pray.

Though in sorrow’s vale fond hopes may perish,

This will prove my staff and stay:

To behold the Man who, deeply sighing

And upon earth’s bosom prostrate lying,

Drank the bitter cup of woe

Since the Father willed it so.

Ever shall my soul retain the vision

Of that Lamb, for sinners slain,

Pale and wounded, held in deep derision,

Hanging on the wood of pain,

Wrestling there in thirst and mortal anguish,

Lest my soul eternally should languish,

Being mindful, too, of me

When He died the world to free.

O Lord Jesus, keep me mindful ever

Of my guilt and of Thy grace.

Be it Thou all bonds of sin dost sever

And all blots of guilt efface.

Thou of night the brightest daylight makest,

And Thy lamb into Thy bosom takest,

As the Shepherd good and fair,

Nursing it with tender care.

I am Thine! Wilt Thou reply by saying,

“Thou forever shalt be mine!”

Cause Thy precious name, all fears allaying,

Brightly in my heart to shine!

Be with Thee all things begun and ended,

Who from earth to heaven hast ascended.

Yea, this shall, till life is spent,

Be our law and testament.