Lord Christ, we praise your sacrifice, your life in love so freely given. For those who took your life away you prayed: that they might be forgiven; and there, in helplessness arrayed, God's power was perfectly displayed. Once helpless in your mother's arms, dependent on her mercy then; at last, by choice, in other hands, you were as helpless once again; and, at their mercy, crucified, you claimed your victory and died. Though helpless and rejected then, you're now as risen Lord acclaimed; forever by your sacrifice is God's eternal love proclaimed: the love which, dying, brings to birth new life and hope for all on earth. So, living Lord, prepare us now your willing helplessness to share; to give ourselves in sacrifice to overcome the world's despair; in love to give our lives away and claim your victory today.