This post is part of a 40-day journey following Jesus in his prayer life. We’ll explore virtually every reference in the Gospels to Jesus and prayer. For a more in-depth treatment, see my book Prayers from the Pit.
“Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying,the heavens were opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my beloved Son;with you I am well pleased’”(Luke 3:21-22 ESV).
All four Gospels mention the baptism of Jesus (Matt 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; John 1:32-34). But only Luke tells us that the descent of the Spirit and the voice from heaven were preceded by a prayer of Jesus. The anointing of God (the dove/Holy Spirit) and the affirmation of God (the voice) were the result of Jesus’ prayer to God.
Jesus speaks in prayer. And the Father speaks back. Jesus asks in prayer. And the Father acts. Prayer is two-way communication. It is the expression of a mutual relationship not the expression of a meaningless ritual.
In addition, prayer activates Jesus’ work. Jesus’ baptism is the inauguration of his ministry. And that ministry begins here with prayer. Prayer launches Jesus’ life-changing labor.
What are you beginning? A day? A project? A relationship? A resolution? Begin it with prayer.
In what ways might prayer become more of a two-way communication? As you ask, are you listening? Are you expecting the Father to reply to your requests?
