This event in Jesus life is significant because this event institutes one of the ordinances of the church, reveals the nearing arrival of the new covenant, and explains the inability of any to remain faithful in their own strength.
So though they were entering an extremely dark time, ultimately this darkness would accomplish God’s redemptive plan. Though Jesus was about to go through great pain and agony, physically and emotionally being separated from His Father He knew He was doing the work of the Father, accomplishing the mission He came to do.