How can righteousness exceed [that of a Pharisee], unless “compassion rises above judgment”? What is as right or as worthy as a creature, fashioned in the image and likeness of God, imitating the Creator who, by the remission of sins, brought about the reparation and sanctification of believers? This is how Christian righteousness can exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees, not by canceling out the law but by rejecting earthly wisdom [to seek human glory and popularity]. For those who love God it is sufficient to please the one they love; and there is no greater recompense to be sought than the loving itself; for love is from God by the very fact that God himself is love. Each person’s treasure is that which the individual desires.

–Leo the Great, Sermon 92.1-3