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I have known a number of people who have chosen to move, whether it was to other cities, provinces or even countries. My grandparents crossed the ocean to come to Canada and even I moved from Quebec to Manitoba. In each and every situation, it was a choice.

I cannot imagine what it would be like not to have that choice, to be forced to leave your home and all that you know. Sadly, even today it still happens, be it due to natural disaster, war or simply because of who you are or what you believe in. On a flight home this past January, I watched as a family in that very situation boarded the flight.

I found myself staring at them. Not because they looked different, spoke a different language or had different religious beliefs. It was simply because of who they were. They were Syrians moving to a new home.

I sat there trying to imagine what their lives had been like up to that point, what they had endured, what they had gone through to be able to step on the Winnipeg-bound flight, and what they had left behind. They had no choice.

Just as the Israelites were watched over, so too, was this Syrian family.

Dear Lord, regardless of where I may find myself, I am assured of your steadfast love. Amen. — DR