But seek the welfare

   of the city

where I have sent you

               into exile,

and pray to the LORD

      on its behalf,

for in its welfare

you will find your welfare.

            Jeremiah 29. 7

(See this unknown, unexpected,

and unlikely place differently.

See and embrace exile

with new eyes and a new heart,

not as a crippling affliction,

   or things gone wrong

       or pit of despair,

but a fresh opportunity

  to serve God

  and love others

in yet another place.)

O LORD,

Align our hearts,

minds, words, deeds

           with Yours.

The unknown

and unexplained

    are not unknown to You.

Nothing random,

nothing fruitless,

but everything

         seamlessly woven.

Even in strange places

where we are outsiders

and don't know the language

         or anyone,

You have placed us

                  strategically

to be a witness to others

and bring Your name,

grace and love there.

You make Your home

           among us.