What It Means to Pray for Others

When did the habit of praying for others take root?
I was always someone who would act only after carefully considering whether something would benefit me.

For the past few years, I've often found myself thinking of certain people and praying for them.

Why do I engage in such behavior? Is it hypocrisy? Self-satisfaction? What benefit does it bring me?
It makes me feel good and fulfilled. This is for me.
It makes it easier to love others and makes my heart more generous. This too is for me.

Sometimes these things become a source of strength for someone. This is also the case.

Today, I received a message from someone I've known for a long time: "I'm always praying for you."
This acquaintance has often sent me such messages.

At first, I would just feel grateful and move on.
Sometimes it would give me strength to get back up again.

Ah, so that's why.