The Pharisee trusted in himself. The publican would not lift his eyes, but cried for mercy. Pride refuses grace.
Jesus justified the humble man. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and that truth is freedom from all bondages, including self-righteous pride.
“And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”
Luke 18:13–14 · KJV
“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.”
John 8:36 · KJV
If pride has kept you from mercy, come as the publican did. The Son makes free indeed.
Read the gospel of freedom