The difference between David and Jackie Owens's first church—the two excruciating years in Tennessee (chapter 3)—and the second church in Van Wert, Ohio, was the difference between a stagnant situation and one with growth potential. As the couple adjusted to the realities of pastoring, David began to thrive in the ministry, and the rise in attendance figures paralleled the boost in his own spirit. He still had to work part-time in order to support the family, but his love affair with the pastorate blossomed regardless. He remains infatuated to this day.

I find myself too often having early meetings. I like to meet with a new Christian or a potential Christian, maybe a business person, and catch breakfast before they go to work at eight. And the day just keeps going from there. Even when I'm bushed, I guess I just love the work of God. Roll me out of bed, point me in the direction of the shower, and I'll head [automatically] for the restaurant. I don't drag and mope and grumble, "Oh, I ...