I had the opportunity to read from Martin Luther King Jr.'s book "strength to love". It was an amazing time reading from a man who understood laying his life down for the sake of a cause he believed in. This is not to exalt him above the work of justice but to see his likeness with Jesus and the cross. The quote below reminds me so much of Jesus saying to his disciples, "the son of man must die". Why did Jesus care less about his death? My guess would be, he understood that death was no defeat but marks the beginning of victory. Rev. King understood that. He saw the exciting moments of freedom and victory...without him but yet he was excited to go for what he believed was worth dying for. Please read the quote below and if possible read his book or get the sermon, "I've been to the mountaintop".

And then I got to Memphis. And some began to say the threats, or talk about the threats that were out. What would happen to me from some of our sick white brothers? Well, I don't know what will happen now. We've got some difficult days ahead. But it doesn't matter with me now. Because I've been to the mountaintop. And I don't mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I'm not concerned about that now. I just want to do God's will. And He's allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I've looked over. And I've seen the promised land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land. And I'm happy, tonight. I'm not worried about anything. I'm not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.