Akademik

n.

A crucially important task that must not fail; often used ironically.

"But amid the soul-searching, it is unlikely that Nicholson, himself the object of an intraparty challenge this winter, can keep in check the passions and egos of politicians, some of whom see themselves on a mission from God to save America from itself."

— Scott Shepard, "GOP fearful in fighting will cost elections," Austin American-Statesman

The popularity of this phrase is almost certainly due to its frequent use in the popular movie The Blues Brothers (1980):

Jake Blues (John Belushi): "First you trade the Cadillac

for a microphone. Then you lie to me about the band.

Now you're gonna put me right back in the joint!"

Elwood Blues (Dan Aykroyd): "They're not gonna catch us.

We're on a mission from God."