The Forgotten Work in Process

-An exclusive excerpt from Allen’s new book-

My high school senior and I were having a hard night at home. I’d gotten us movie tickets for some father-son time together. But things were quickly derailing.

He had a few chores to do before we left but was stalling and complaining. I could feel my heart tanking. By the time the chores were finally done, so was I. Everything in me wanted to call the plans off.

I sensed God’s nudge to not lose this time together. We got in the car and drove in silence. We had to park further out than normal due to construction. Bright orange cones and signs directed our path down a side alley between buildings as we walked to the theater. Still in silence. My heart sighed. Jesus, rescue this night.

We turned a corner to a sign that read:

Construction Underway. Look Up.

Five stories above, two steel beams were held by a crane. They were lit…and together formed the shape of a cross.

A few feet later, another sign: 

Work in Process. Proceed with Care.

Yep. I smiled. I need patience. My son is a work in process.

I sensed Jesus smile back. You both are.

I gently put my arm on his shoulder. “I’m glad we’re here, son. It’s going to be okay.”

We walked forward together, two works in process.

(From The Creativity Glitch: How to Stop Being Stuck, Find Your Groove, & Create with God.Copyright © 2026 Allen Arnold.)

This reading was crafted to encourage your pursuit of story and creativity with God. Your donation makes this crowd-funded initiative possible. You can support it via PAYPAL (or by check to Allen Arnold at PO Box 62841, Colorado Springs, CO 80962).

Want More?
Order your copy of The Creativity Glitch‍ ‍today