What is the mission of the United States State Department? Mark 16:15-18. We just celebrated another Independence Day in our great nation. The designers of our nation gave us the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and three branches of government. When I went to look for a mission statement, I found that our State Department has this on its web page. Our Mission: 'to protect and promote U.S. security, prosperity, and democratic values and shape an international environment in which all Americans can thrive'. Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Declaration of Independence was our first Secretary of State. The duties of this position have changed over the last 230 years. According to their web page: “We now work to fight terrorism, protect U.S. interests abroad, and implement foreign policy initiatives while building a more free, prosperous, and secure world.” A mission gives purpose to why an organization exists. At Wesley Chapel, Jesus gave us our mission to make disciples by going into the world and preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ. Jesus died to forgive us our sins and was raised to life to give us hope for eternal life. The State Department focuses on security, prosperity and freedom. As Christians, we find security in a relationship with Jesus. We find prosperity by trusting God. We find freedom through forgiveness and obedience to Jesus.

 Holy God, we believe in your son Jesus Christ. Help us to share the Good News so that all people can find security, prosperity, and freedom through your will and your way. Amen.