A tragic reality of the breath of human history is the ongoing temptation for some to take control and conquer others.
Rulers have defeated cities. Emperors have conquered entire nations. At times, Kings have striven to conquer the known
world. But one uncharted territory remains that has eluded the grasp of people hungry for power throughout history.
This unconquered territory is the human heart.

Today, on Palm Sunday, we celebrate the simple and humble triumphal entry of Jesus into the city of Jerusalem. And, most importantly, we celebrate Jesus as the king who is trying to enter our own personal Jerusalem — our hearts. But is He able to enter? Is there room in our hearts for Jesus and his rule of love?

Often the doors of our hearts are locked, because we are bound and held captive by ourselves, our careers, our stored up resentment, our fear, our calendars, our pride which blocks forgiveness, our struggle to accept others for who they
are, our critical style. And so how do we

solve the problem of trying to let Jesus, the Lord of love, open the doors and enter our hearts? Part of the answer is to learn surrender, to let go.

Instead of attempting to exert our absolute control over all the rhythms of life, we may try yielding and abandoning our defensiveness. Opening the doors to Jesus may mean that we say, “yes” to all the little dying and risings, to all the
paradoxes and polarities that life brings.

What does this surrendering, this yielding, and this letting go mean for married couples? How can we walk with Jesus this
Holy Week and open the doors of our hearts wider to Him and each other? I think it’s about creating a sense of safety,
an atmosphere of unconditional love and acceptance. It’s only when we feel safe, when we know that no matter what we will be loved, that we can let our spouse in and dismiss the paralyzing fear. It’s only then that we can let go, experience intimacy and finish our walk with Jesus toward Easter.