Charles Wendell Colson, once known as President Nixon's feared "hatchet man," experienced a profound transformation that would change the course of his life and impact countless others. Born in Boston in 1931, Colson's early life was marked by achievement. He graduated from Brown University and earned a law degree from George Washington University. His career soared as he served in the U.S. Marine Corps and later established his own law firm. In 1969, he became Special Counsel to President Nixon, gaining a reputation for being ruthless in political maneuvers.
Watergate Scandal Brings Crisis
However, Colson's world began to unravel with the Watergate scandal. As the scandal unfolded, he faced potential arrest and prosecution. It was during this time of crisis that a friend, Tom Phillips, introduced him to evangelical Christianity, sharing with him the writings of C.S. Lewis. Reflecting on his conversion, Colson remarked that he was powerfully and completely converted to Jesus Christ, coming to a thoroughly settled conviction that Jesus Christ was alive.
Prison Becomes Place of Renewal
Facing the legal consequences of his actions, Colson pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice and was sentenced to prison. During his seven-month sentence at Maxwell Federal Prison Camp in Alabama, Colson experienced a spiritual renewal. He realized that God used his greatest defeat for His glory. A fellow inmate challenged Colson's commitment to helping prisoners, to which he responded with a promise that would shape his future.
Prison Ministry Transforms Lives
After his release in 1975, Colson founded Prison Fellowship in 1976, the largest Christian nonprofit serving prisoners and their families. His vision extended globally with the creation of Prison Fellowship International in 1979 and Justice Fellowship in 1983, advocating for a justice system rooted in biblical principles. Colson's efforts were recognized with the Templeton Prize in 1993, which he donated to further the mission of Prison Fellowship.
Colson's life became a testament to the transformative power of Jesus Christ. He declared that he did what he did out of gratitude to God for what He had done for him. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the profound change Jesus can bring, even in the darkest of circumstances.
