Today begins part of the climax of Holy Week. In church history, this day has been called Maundy Thursday.

This word maundy means commandment. It points to the command Jesus gave after washing his own disciples’ feet.

Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. (John 13:14-15)

Jesus knew who he was (see vs3), yet he responded as a servant.