Why Did Jesus Need to Pray?

Reflecting on the Fifth Sunday after Pentecost: Three Days after Sunday (Year B)

Scripture

Semi-continuous: Psalm 119:113-128; 1 Samuel 19:8-17; Mark 6:45-52

Complementary: Psalm 65; Joshua 10:1-14; Mark 6:45-52

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Prayer

O God our ruler and shepherd, you anointed Jesus as the king and servant of your people. Make us attentive to your word, that we may accept your reign over us and serve you alone. Amen. (Revised Common Lectionary)

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Reflection

Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. After saying farewell to them, he went up on the mountain to pray.

When evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land. When he saw that they were straining at the oars against an adverse wind, he came toward them early in the morning, walking on the sea. He intended to pass them by. But when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and cried out, for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” Then he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded, for they did not understand about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened (Mark 6:45-52).

Jesus’ prayer life is a testament to his full humanity. While he was fully divine, he was also fully human, experiencing the same physical, emotional, and spiritual needs as any other person. Prayer was a means for him to express his dependence on God the Father, to seek guidance, strength, and comfort. This demonstrates that prayer is a vital practice for all humans, regardless of their spiritual maturity or closeness to God.