He went up on the mountain by himself to pray

“Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side of the sea, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray.” (MT 14: 22-23) 

Jesus’ identity determined His actions, prayer and activities–as Son of God, who came to bring God’s love to us. His activity was not primarily to do something for someone (like feeding the hungry crowd or praying to God), but was to be with them (to listen to them and to answer to their needs). He was with people, and “his heart was moved with pity for them,” and He was with His Father “to pray.” What He does is based on who He is—“You are the Son of God”.

“Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” (Gospel Acclamation)