I never met Charles “Chuck” Colson, who died last week at age 80, but he was a big influence in my Christian walk. Colson, one of the most powerful figures under President Nixon, was once described as the “evil genius of that administration.”  

He spent time in prison for his role in the Watergate scandal that led to the resignation of President Nixon. He pleaded guilty in 1974 to obstruction of justice for his part in the Watergate cover-up. During the trial, he was referred to as a troubleshooter and as a master of dirty tricks.

It is reported that Colson once said, “I’d walk over my grandmother to get the president re-elected to a second term.”

Prior to going to prison, he confessed that he had a born-again experience and was a Christian. People, especially his enemies, were angered at his proclamation that he was redeemed by his faith.   

After his release from prison in 1976, Colson founded the Prison Fellowship Ministries, one of the biggest international prison ministries. His ministry reaches out to prisoners and ex-prisoners and their families. It also runs work-release programs, marriage seminars and classes to help prisoners after their release.

He said, “I shudder to think of what I’d been if I had not gone to prison. You realize that prosperity or pleasure is not as important as the maturing of your soul.”

He walked the Christian walk until his death, serving God and helping people forgotten by society.  

“Chuck” Colson’s book, “Born Again,” was a big influence in my life, and his godly walk for the past 35 years proved that the greatest miracle is a changed life.   

In 1973, the Boston Globe wrote, “If Mr. Colson can repent of his sins, there just has to be hope for everyone.” That statement is accurate according to God’s Word. Salvation is offered to everyone.

“Chuck” Colson’s life can be compared to the apostle Paul, who wrote most of the New Testament. Both of their lives were changed by the power of a forgiving God and a personal relationship with His Son, Jesus Christ.

If you have any questions or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 985-652-8477, or email hkeller@comcast.net.