I know you understand the significance of what Jesus was teaching his disciples because you describe exactly what was being taught, "shows us that service to our fellows is something to be emulated and desired." So in every small custom we have, opening the door for someone, allowing someone out in traffic can emulate this spirit correct? Take a "holy kiss" for instance. We greet each other with a handshake so if a saint enters your house or place of worship and you greet them with a "holy handshake" in sincerity and love you fulfill the same lesson, all that has changed is the ritual itself because it doesn't matter. Part of the lesson is that in every little thing you do even down to a simple handshake, do it with love sincerity and service, without respect of persons. These things we should do, not reach back to ancient customs of another time and copy their rituals as though Christ would be pleased.
Well I guess we'll just have to disagree then. I happen to think it wouldn't be preserved for future disciples unless Christ wanted us to do what he commanded.