Wednesday | Framing, Windows & Doors: Daily Practices, Reflection & Mission
Wednesday | Framing, Windows & Doors: Daily Practices, Reflection & Mission
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Reading For Wednesday | Matthew 5:14-16
GIVING SHAPE, LIGHT AND ACCESS
Once a foundation is set and the plans are drawn, the framing begins. This is when the house starts to take shape—walls go up, spaces are defined, and you can finally see how the blueprint will become a home. But a framed structure still needs windows and doors. The windows bring in light and fresh air. The doors let people in and send you out. Without them, a house might be solid, but it will also be dark, closed, and lifeless.
In spiritual life, framing represents the daily and weekly practices that give shape to your walk with God. These might be things like a regular time of prayer, reading Scripture, gathering with other believers, serving, practicing Sabbath, or giving generously. They form the visible structure of a life with Christ. Throughout this series we’ll be digging more deeply into each of the Spiritual Practices that our church has identified as we commit to Be with Jesus, Become like Jesus, and Do the things that Jesus did. Windows are the spaces we intentionally create for God’s light to shine in—through reflection, solitude, and honest self-examination. Doors are our openness to others—hospitality, friendship, encouragement, and sharing the gospel.
Jesus told His disciples, “You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14–16). A healthy rule of life ensures our spiritual house isn’t just sturdy—it’s bright and welcoming. If we build strong walls but never cut windows, we live in shadows. If we build a beautiful space but keep the doors locked, no one else gets to experience the goodness God has poured into us. Jesus modeled this balance perfectly—He regularly withdrew to quiet places to pray and be with the Father (Luke 5:16), letting the “light” in through reflection and communion with God, and He kept His life open to people, welcoming them in with compassion, teaching, and fellowship.
Your daily practices are the framework. Your reflection is the window. Your hospitality and mission are the doors. All three are essential for a life that is both formed in Christ and offered to the world.
Once a foundation is set and the plans are drawn, the framing begins. This is when the house starts to take shape—walls go up, spaces are defined, and you can finally see how the blueprint will become a home. But a framed structure still needs windows and doors. The windows bring in light and fresh air. The doors let people in and send you out. Without them, a house might be solid, but it will also be dark, closed, and lifeless.
In spiritual life, framing represents the daily and weekly practices that give shape to your walk with God. These might be things like a regular time of prayer, reading Scripture, gathering with other believers, serving, practicing Sabbath, or giving generously. They form the visible structure of a life with Christ. Throughout this series we’ll be digging more deeply into each of the Spiritual Practices that our church has identified as we commit to Be with Jesus, Become like Jesus, and Do the things that Jesus did. Windows are the spaces we intentionally create for God’s light to shine in—through reflection, solitude, and honest self-examination. Doors are our openness to others—hospitality, friendship, encouragement, and sharing the gospel.
Jesus told His disciples, “You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14–16). A healthy rule of life ensures our spiritual house isn’t just sturdy—it’s bright and welcoming. If we build strong walls but never cut windows, we live in shadows. If we build a beautiful space but keep the doors locked, no one else gets to experience the goodness God has poured into us. Jesus modeled this balance perfectly—He regularly withdrew to quiet places to pray and be with the Father (Luke 5:16), letting the “light” in through reflection and communion with God, and He kept His life open to people, welcoming them in with compassion, teaching, and fellowship.
Your daily practices are the framework. Your reflection is the window. Your hospitality and mission are the doors. All three are essential for a life that is both formed in Christ and offered to the world.
PRACTICE FOR TODAY | LET THE LIGHT IN
- Identify one framing practice that keeps your spiritual life strong (e.g., Scripture, prayer, Sabbath).
- Identify one window practice that lets God’s light in (e.g., journaling, silence, confession).
- Identify one door practice that shares His love with others (e.g., invite someone for coffee, encourage a friend, pray for someone in need).
- Commit to practicing one of each this week—then notice how they bring shape, light, and openness to your walk with God.