Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

Although I've never met him or her, I'm willing to concede that this world harbors a number of parents who don't want the best for their children.

They may be out there, but I don't know them.

Certainly an accusation of "not caring" can never be brought against the parents of young children in the northern provinces of China. There the kindergartens are charging the parents of their students $190 to read the children's palms.

The company which has designed the tests, Shanxi Daomeng Culture Communications Co., says the test can help "determine the children's innate intelligence and potential."

In some countries such a test might be considered a bit of silliness -- not in China. Since the Communist Party has decreed only one child per couple, and since most Chinese parents hope their child may grow up to help support them, most moms and pops feel an overriding need to do all they can to assure their child's success.

That's why, if a palm-reading can give their youngsters a leg up on the competition, well, nothing is too good for little Johnny or Janie.

All this explains why, rather than objecting to this outrageous price being charged for the test, parents are lining up with money in their hands to have the procedure done.

When I heard about the palm-reading tests and the amount being charged to take them, I have to admit, I started to think.

One of the first thoughts that occurred to me was this: if these parents want to give their child the best, they can do no better than to consult with the Savior.

Jesus, the only Person who loves these children more than the parents, offered up His life to ransom and redeem them. With Holy Spirit-given faith these children can be given new hearts -- new hearts which will

a. offer them forgiveness, hope and joy right now;

b. offer them hope and comfort at the time of death;

c. offer them a heavenly home, where a never-ending reunion will take place with all believers ... including moms, dads and children who know Jesus.

Truly, there is no greater gift a parent can give a child than to say, "Son, daughter, I want you to meet Jesus. He loves you very much. He is your Savior."

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, although it seems impossible, today I pray that the hearts of China's leadership may let the Savior's story be shared in homes throughout that great land. Until that day comes, may parents see the Savior and tell their child about God's great love and grace. This I pray in my Savior's Name. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Exodus 21-22    Matthew 27:51-66

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