Logically, we're seeing unfold an attempt to influence the French election and the background anxiety within which Brexit, UK unity, EU stability, etc. It may well also be an attempt by ISIL to regain some momentum in light of the setbacks they now experience in Syria and Iraq.

There's a natural revulsion that we all have to such barbarity but we must guard against overreaction (which is precisely what the perpetrators intend by these outrages to engender by their actions).

In particular reference to Canada, let's strongly resist those that would harass domestic Muslims or demand exclusion of Syrian refugees, etc.  

These are truly times to keep calm and carry on.