On Christian Pride - Part I

I have some thoughts on Pride especially when found in Christians, and particularly the Catholic variety. This is the first of at least two parts. The concept of Christian Pride or Catholic Pride is an oxymoron. I am glad I am Christian. I am grateful to God most high that I am Catholic. It is a sacred gift to have been born thus. It is a gift from God that I was given parents and nuns and priests who catechized me well. It is still a greater gift that the fire of the Holy Spirit has touched me with a thirst for knowledge about the true faith and a desire to live it. But pride...? Many see pride as a good thing (e.g., "I'm proud of you," or "I am proud to be an American (or whatever group)." But what is the opposite of pride? We have an answer from the Thesaurus. The opposite of pride is humility, modesty, and shame. We are called to be both humble and modest. These are set clearly against pride. How then can we be proud of being Catholic Christians when being called to Christ means to seek humility and live modestly? If I am proud to be an American (or Christian or of Irish decent), does that mean all who are not should live in shame? I understand being grateful. I understand pledging my heartfelt allegiance. I understand owing a debt to those who have given me the great gifts I have. But does that make me superior to others? Am I God that I can make such a judgment? Being blessed with gifts should not be a source of judging those who do not have these gifts - rather they impose a burden of responsibility. "When much has been given a man, much will be required of him. More will be asked of a man to whom more has been entrusted." Lk 13:48