The Pharisee Within

When looking at my brother, what do I try to see,
Do I try to find a weakness, that makes me feel better about me;
Searching for my value, in the failures that they made,
My pride I try to hide, behind my holy charade.

My obedience is confused, by my desire for prestige,
Building self-esteem by diversion, forcing emotional fatigue;
Hypocritical values are what I am living by,
Examination of self-avoided, my heart a living lie.

Praying in the temple, my faith only a display,
Sincerity sadly lacking as my hollowness I portray;
Thanking God for my attributes, that I think make me better,
Failing to know the heart of law, just following it to the letter.

Much to learn from the "sinner", who repents in his heart,
Humility in seeking mercy, our brokenness is where it starts;
Coming to God in honesty, available for healing within,
The need for acceptance from others, will commence to grow dim.