What do we use purple paraments?
Purple is the color of the robe Jesus wore to the cross. It is associated with His suffering and death. We use purple during the season of Lent because we focus on His suffering and death, and because purple is also associated with royalty. Our Savior was crowned with thorns that we might receive the crown of righteousness.
What do purple paraments mean to our worship?
Purple means we are in the penitential season of Lent, preparing us for the celebration of Holy Week, which culminates in our celebration of Easter, when Lent is officially over.
What does the Bible say about purple paraments?
The Bible states that Jesus was dressed in a purple robe (John 19:2). The soldiers cast lots for that robe at the foot of the cross (John 19:23-24) in fulfillment of Psalm 22:18. The soldiers did this to mock Jesus’ claim of “King of the Jews,” but the King of kings took the sins of the whole world, that we might gain entry into His kingdom by His grace.
Suggestions
Sing the following hymns from the Lutheran Service Book: 420, 425, 435, 437, 438, 439, 440, 450.
Object Lesson
Show your family a picture of a king or queen robed in purple. Tell them about earthly kings and the power and prestige they have. Then take them to John 19 and show them what happened to the King of Kings. Jesus our King sacrificed Himself to take away our sins so we could be members of His kingdom.
Prayer
What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered was all for sinners’ gain; mine, mine was the transgression, but Thine the deadly pain. Lo, here I fall, my Savior! Tis I deserve Thy place; look on me with Thy favor, and grant to me Thy grace. Amen.