October 17, 2012
Dear Friends,
We want to take this time to thank you for your love, prayers and overwhelming support for us.
My wife and I started a sabbatical on July 31, 2012. I also resigned the pastorate of the great Shenandoah Bible Baptist Church of Martinsburg, WV, on that same day. We already miss the people terribly. This has made it possible for Mrs. Owens and me to take a much needed break. Since that time, we have been thoroughly enjoying our extra time together. We have been resting, visiting family and serving God at a lighter pace while getting a greater amount of personal time with Him. Our marriage is strong, happy and better than ever. The churches we are visiting have been delightful and refreshing. I have also enjoyed getting some quality time with some of my older, wiser preacher brethren.
As a result of this sabbatical, I have cancelled most all of my preaching engagements across the country, and as requests for me to speak continue to come in, I am putting them on hold for a few months. I will travel and preach again in the future. I am spending my spare time writing materials to help God’s people and His churches. Our next book will be a 240-page book called “Teaching Sunday School Teachers to Teach Sunday School”. Mrs. Owens is enjoying this extra time by baking, quilting and playing her piano. Pray for me as I am gaining weight at a rapid pace. I have discovered that you can’t lose weight by only talking about it, but you have to keep your mouth shut. I used to hate diets, and my practice was that every time I said the word “diet,” I would wash my mouth out with chocolate. Obviously I will have to give up that practice. We together, are enjoying many activities like taking walks, riding bikes, soul winning, praying and singing, as well as, going on romantic dates at some of our favorite restaurants and places.
I will soon be posting some new sermons on www.owenspublications.com at the free sermon option. I will also post an update such as this one from time to time for you to read.
My wife and I both look forward to our future ministry as we serve our great God together. Serving Jesus has been, is and will continue to be our passion. God bless you as you follow Him. We love you and thank God for your friendship and encouragements.
A piece of advice for us all:
“Be kind to everyone, because everyone is having a tough time!”
Sincerely,
Dr. Jeff Owens