Jesus left an example, that we should follow in His steps (1 Peter 2:21). As John says,
By this we may know that we are in Him: whoever says he abides in Him ought to walk in the same way in which He walked (1 John 2:5-6).
From beginning to end, Jesus “walked” in prayer. As a boy, He was devoted to His Father (Luke 2:49). He was praying at His baptism (Luke 3:21). He was praying at His transfiguration (Luke 9:29). He went to Gethsemane “as was His custom” and continued in prayer (Luke 22:39-45). He died on the cross with a prayer on His parched lips.
Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit!” And having said this He breathed His last (Luke 23:46).
When He ascended to the Father, His hands were raised again, bringing blessings to His disciples.
He led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up His hands He blessed them. While He blessed them, He parted from them and was carried up into heaven (Luke 24:50-51).
Sustained prayer characterized all of the eventful journey of Jesus. Now He tells us that it is our turn. As we follow in His steps, our footprints become knee-prints, and our knee-prints become face-prints. Then we will know the full glory of answered prayer.