My Friend

You lived next door to me for years
We shared our dreams, our joys and tears.
A friend to me you were indeed,
A friend who helped me when in need.
My faith in you was strong and sure;
We had such trust as should endure.
No spats between us ever rose,
Our friends were like -- and so, our foes.

What sadness then, my friend, to find
That after all, you weren't so kind
The day my life on earth did end
I found you weren't a faithful friend.

For all those years we spent on earth;
You never talked of second birth.
You never spoke of my lost soul
And of the Christ who'd make me whole!

I plead today from hell's cruel fire
And tell you now my least desire --
You cannot do a thing for me;
No words today my bonds will free

. But, do not err, my friend, again --
Do all you can for souls of men.
Plead with them now quite earnestly Lest they be cast in hell with me!