Jesus the Best Beloved

Dear centre of my best desires,
And sov'reign of my heart,
What sweet delight thy name inspires!
What bliss thy smiles impart!

Jesus — O loveliest, dearest name!
And wilt thou condescend
To own the bold, yet humble claim,
My everlasting friend?

Too oft, alas, my passions rove,
In search of meaner charms;
Trifles unworthy of my love
Divide me from thy arms.

Ye teasing vanities depart,
I seek my absent Lord;
No balm to ease my aching heart,
Can all your joys afford.

Come, dearest Lord, with pow'r divine,
And drive thy foes away;
O be my heart, my passions thine,
And never, never stray.