FEB. 27 - Wednesday in San Diego

Another exciting day! Here were the presentations of note...

CHARLES COLSON - yes he of Watergate fame, who after serving prison time became a great leader in Prison Fellowship ministry. His keynote address basically tied in with his latest book, titled The Faith. Incidentally, we received a complimentary copy of the book - in fact, at every session when we come in, there are 3-4 books or resources sitting on our chairs. Lots of good stuff.

Here is a Newsweek interview with Colson about his book.

Colson had challenging words for the church - suggesting that if our culture is sick, it is because the church is not healthy.

His book lays out 14 key truths that should hold us together as Christians, regardless of our background. He has a very optimistic view of the connection between Christianity and western civilization. One interesting quote: Christianity is the foundation for the very freedom people have to attack Christianity!

He carefully argued against some of the most outspoken criticisms of the tactics Christians have used.

I can't say I agree with everything Colson said, but I look forward to looking over his book in more detail.


BRENDA SALTER MCNEIL - Now we heard more of a sermon than a speech. She did a powerful presentation based on the story of the woman at the well found in John 4:7-26.

Dr. McNeil has her own firm that does consulting and leadership development, focusing on racial and ethnic reconciliation.

As she taught concerning the Samaritan woman's encounter with Jesus, she told the story of her own encounter with Jesus and her conversion:

Jesus has a way of showing up - coming when you least expect him. He understands us - that we are not bad people - we are thirsty people! He offers us what we don't even know what we were searching for!

I am saddened by how many people - even Christians - do not understand that Jesus died to reconcile us not only to God but to each other. Too many people think that reconciliation is an elective. They do not understand what it has to do with salvation.


Tomorrow will be my last day at the conference. It actually ends with one more session on Friday morning, but we are flying back on an overnight flight so I can be back for a commitment at home!

Oh...by the way...we did take a little free time this afternoon, and Betsy and I experienced the beauty of the Torrey Pines State Reserve, north of San Diego.

We also went to see the seals at the LaJolla beach in San Diego. We were totally amazed that we were able to see the birth of two seal pups right there before our very eyes. We had an overhead view and it was unbelievable.

Here is some information on the pup births this season. The two we saw were late afternoon today, and were named Campbell and Layla. (Two different moms.) Betsy got pictures. You can also see pictures on the link above.