We’re called to look out for the interests of others and not just ourselves. In fact, it becomes a point of arrogance when we just focus on meeting our needs that we neglect the good of others. But pride is a sneaky sin and might also fuel our acts of compassion.
To be sure, this is often hard to see because on the surface we’re just caring for the needs of others. And it’s hard to suggest this is prideful when clearly the focus is on serving them.
But pride doesn’t discount the potential good we can still bring others, though it can blind us to the true good – appearing good rather than actually being good. Pride is about our own heart attitudes. And the pride of compassion is when we become arrogant in our ability to bring good – a savior complex believing that with enough empathy and care we can save anyone.
On the one hand, we often lack empathy, and we’re all too quick to dismiss others without seeking to understand or extend grace on their checker road of redemption. No one stands outside of the power of God’s redeeming love.
But this doesn’t mean we ourselves can save everyone, or that we can care enough to bring about the perfect restoration of all good things.
And we must also remember that we’re dealing with more than just flesh and blood realities. While we can freely extend compassion to individuals, it’s arrogant to believe that with enough empathy we can turn evil into good. And, without a doubt, befriending evil will eventually take us out regardless of how compassionate we might be otherwise.
In the end, continue to grow in your compassion and empathy toward others. But don’t let pride get the best of you – assuming you can care enough to save everyone or turn evil into good.
Photo by Steve Leisher on Unsplash
