Inspire, Spring 2008

Cedarville University 17 my cedarv i l le The desire I have to serve has been encouraged, challenged, and developed through the three semesters I have attended Cedarville University. Romans 12:4-5 says, “For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.” My time at Cedarville has brought these verses to life for me. God has provided the dearest friends I have ever had in my life; they fill a place in my heart that I did not know existed. Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined myself surrounded by such God-fearing brothers and sisters in Christ! I know these amazing relationships have nothing to do with my ability to attain good friendships, but, rather, are a gift from God. He knew I would need to be surrounded by encouragement and love in order to fulfill my passion to serve women. I could never nurture this on my own, but my brothers and sisters stand firm by my side, lifting me up when I fall and challenging me when I’m standing too proudly. Not only are the friendships vital in my growth, but the social work education I am receiving at Cedarville is also fundamental to the development of knowledge and skills I will need to be a counselor and mentor. The professors have taught me to think holistically in terms of serving those in need, challenging me to consider how Christ would serve them. My internships have all involved working with women, and this, too, has developed my love of service to those in desperation. My friends and professors, not to mention my involvement in ministries and organizations, have inspired me to love the Lord my God with everything I have. These experiences have also helped in my spiritual growth and understanding of Scripture, showing me how to be an obedient, faithful servant to the one I love, Christ the Lord. Still, the awareness of my need for a Savior is more prevalent than ever. Here at Cedarville I am being trained in the ways of the Lord and to live a life of godliness (1 Timothy 4:7). These lessons will remain in my heart for eternity. I know that when I leave the University, my education here will be complete, but each day I will be learning how I can better counsel the women that are placed before me. Not all of the women God calls me to minister to will be wallflowers. Some will be wilted blooms in need of nourishment. Others will need stronger roots. They will all need the love of God. I am grateful to live as His servant, providing nourishment to these wilted, yet blossoming, flowers. Cassandra Dobutovich ’09 looks forward to graduating with a degree in social work. A member of Delta Alpha Epsilon, the student organization for alumni relations, Cassie is from Oak Ridge, New Jersey. You may contact her at cdobutovich@cedarville.edu . i