Some Christians see Jesus' death on the cross as the whole point of his life, but the Gospels paint a much richer picture. Jesus was a man on a mission to re-call his people to God's way of justice and compassion, and to oppose the unjust and uncaring powers-that-be in his time. Following his vision of God's just rule provoked increasing opposition, but he was unwavering in his devotion to the vision. His death was a seemingly inevitable outcome of his mission, and he accepted it, believing that his sacrifice would add power to his message--which is what happened. Death could no stop him: He lived still! And his vision of a truly mutual, just, compassionate way of life spread like wildfire, still inviting us into its power today.