Our first thoughts are of Jesus weak, powerless and alone. The racial context of the images remind us that regardless of colour we are all the same. The suffering of those who are from a different race, colour or creed is the same as ours and needs to be acknowledged. His road to Calvary led to death, but he changed the world for all humankind by his love and his selflessness.

Every single person can make a difference. Even the smallest action can have profound effects. Jesus is condemned to death even though he is innocent. We condemn others to suffering and death by our squandering of the world’s resources for our own pleasure and satisfaction. Jesus looks powerless yet he achieved so much. His eloquent silence shows his hidden strength.