Final answer:
All Gospel writers valued prayer, but Luke's Gospel stands out for its detailed and frequent references to prayer, suggesting a special concern for this spiritual practice within his narrative.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question: Which of the Gospel writers really cared about prayer? is intriguing but may imply a subjectivity that isn't supported by direct evidence. All four Gospel writers—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—conveyed the significance of prayer in their narratives. However, Luke's Gospel is particularly notable for its emphasis on prayer. Luke mentions prayer more frequently and includes specific parables and occasions related to prayer not found in the other Gospels. Examples include the parable of the persistent widow and the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, which underscore perseverance in prayer and approaching God with humility.
Additionally, Luke details Jesus praying at critical moments, such as before choosing His disciples and at the Mount of Olives before His crucifixion. Furthermore, Acts of the Apostles, also attributed to Luke, continues to emphasize prayer's role in the early Christian community. Although each Gospel writer had a different focus, the portrayal of prayer in Luke’s accounts suggests a deep concern for this spiritual practice.
It is also important to consider the historical context in which these texts were written. Early Christianity didn't have a single set of beliefs, and the four Gospels reflect diverse memories and interpretations of Jesus’ life and teachings. The theological perspectives of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are filtered through their respective views on numerous Christian themes, including prayer.