Thursday, November 1, 2012

Barbara Askin Retires After World Changing Actions

By Sharlene Fleming


In the New Testament of the Bible Jesus commanded His disciples with what is now known as the great commission. The command was to go everywhere and share what he had taught them. He let them know that he will always be with them. Barbara Askin might not be referred to as a Pastor or Bishop, but she has without a doubt been involved with great commission responsibilities. And she moves into retirement she shall be comforted in knowing that he Lord will continually be with her in all that she does.

As Jesus hung on a cross experiencing excruciating pain, he made time to think about others. He communicated with a thief who hung on a cross as well. He confirmed that someone was in position to care for his mother after his death. When Barbara suffered with her husband during long days in the hospital, she observed and felt the suffering and pain of children who were dealing with the agony of cancer and related treatments. A part of Barbara was suffering, yet she moved forward with a great commission spirit towards others.

There are times when inspiring and helpful entities can be created out of the embers of hard times and tragedy. Barbara's missionary movements followed this path. Almost 2 decades ago she lost her loving husband David to cancer. Davids memory was what drove the founding of Kids Wish Network. Now, with almost fifteen years of faithful service, Barbara will be retiring.

Kids Wish Network, or KWN, is known by its mission. It is a charitable organization that operates internationally, and is dedicated to giving hope, happy memories, and heightened quality of life to children dealing with life changing situations. KWN helps kids and their families with several significant programs. From a hospital to a homeless shelter, the network is being active in making differences.

There are fantastic children with sicknesses that God shall, in His great wisdom, call back earlier to heaven. For these precious souls, KWN tries to serve as a picture of the love of God. This way when they get to heaven they will be able to connect a measure of Gods love with what they experienced on earth.

From visits by professional football players, actors, and musicians, children with various illnesses can get a moment of happiness and joy during an otherwise difficult time. Children in remote areas experiencing unacceptable pains of abuse, homelessness, and neglect are being blessed through KWN.

The world is indebted to Barbara for the difference she has made. For each young child she has assisted there are families, organizations, and regions that will benefit from this as well. It remains to be seen whether any of the children helped will find the cure for cancer, create the idea that will lead to a debt free country, or become President. But it would not be surprising.

Barbara Askin retires, but those who know her best will agree that her love for others and the compassion to help them will never go away. After all, that is just who she is. The Kids Wish Network will continue this form of great commissioning, seeking to help as many as possible. After all, this is exactly what Barbara would want.




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