Freddie Peaco, a blind woman, worked for the Library of Congress for 42 years–even created written publications. After attending Howard University, she earned a master’s degree from American University, and was an ordained elder in the Presbyterian Church. This African American woman didn’t let her physical handicap stop her from serving. She exemplifies some-thing the Apostle Paul spoke of years ago. He was afflicted with a physical thorn in his flesh, but God used him despite the handicap. He wrote in 2 Corinthians 12, “Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” Paul went on to say, “I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” So if Christ enabled weak Paul, blind Freddie Peaco, Joni Erickson, and many others to succeed, despite their physical handicaps, surely He will help us fulfill our purpose when our aim is to do His will.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
