I boarded the plane with a full heart, feeling ready to bring light wherever I go. But soon after, the man seated near me started coughing heavily, and a young boy screamed incessantly to get his mother’s attention. In a moment, my sense of peace gave way to irritation.

I had to pause and consciously regulate my frustrations, reminding myself to pray for their unique struggles. It struck me how challenging it can be to maintain peace when our tolerance for difficulties is low and our patience runs thin.

Oh Jesus, help me to enter into Your peace. Teach me how to hold on to it firmly. Drive away every force of darkness that torments our minds and disturbs our relationships. Come as the Prince of Peace and reign over us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.