JARS OF CLAY
Michael Tan
As we come to the close of our 51st year of ministry, I am reminded of the Apostle Paul’s assessment in 2 Corinthians 4:7 “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”
Ministry over the last five decades has been exhilarating, to say the least. We are grateful for many faithful supporters standing with us, as well as many lives that have been transformed through our programs across Asia and beyond.
Ministry has also been demanding, especially when we were breaking new grounds. The YLDP – Younger Leader Development Program was a new initiative that was started in 2019. We had to learn much about young people between 18 – 25 years of age. It was a steep learning curve but totally necessary.
Then launching our mobile micro-learning platform called NEXLeaders.com was akin to a start-up enterprise that requires cutting edge contents, digital creativity and financial resources. We were stretched to the limits. To encourage value-based leadership in our competitive world is really a daunting task.
To stay alive in ministry and to maintain a sense of balance and perspective is the continual challenge. Here again, we look to the words of the Apostle,“ We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” Well, we may not suffer persecution or hostile opposition like Apostle Paul and his team but we can always emulate their dependence on God for every situation.
What then has kept me going? I can think of three realities.
Firstly, it is by God’s mercy that I have been engaged in this ministry from the time He called the founding members in 1970. “This treasure in jars of clay” is a powerful reminder that any ability to achieve and any strength to serve for the long haul comes from God. As our founding members are definitely not getting younger, we can truly appreciate the metaphor of clay jars! Perhaps now more than ever, it is not difficult for me to stay aware of the earthen vessel that I am. It is certainly a humbling thought that is not depressing!
Secondly, I am a steward of God’s grace. The Apostle Paul declares, “Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart.” Grace and mercy are flip sides of the same coin. We are graced by God. Ministry is spreading God’s grace around. In the Bible, a steward is a person who supervises a household or manages someone’s affairs for him. As a steward of God’s grace I know that I have an awesome responsibility and a glorious privilege. There is a demand upon me to stay prepared – that is, to always be ready to meet the Master, and to be the conduit through which others may meet Him.
Thirdly, as a preacher by calling, I am compelled by the fact that I speak for eternity. The ministry of the Word is what brings eternity into the present and makes the contemporary word take on eternal significance. That is why we believe that preaching is God’s primary means of communicating with us. That is why, as a community, we have been studying the Word regularly for the last 51 years.
As we move forward into the next year, we again take comfort in Apostle Paul’s affirmation: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” Indeed, the best is yet to be!
MINISTRY HIGHLIGHTS
www.eagles.org.sg/eldp
in 2019
22 New Participants for Class of 2021
20 Graduands
5 Leadership Retreats
5 New Projects
“After you get tired of transactional leadership seminars and trainings, come and join ELDP. You’ll not only gain time-tested practical wisdom and content but will become a part of a Christ-centered community and network that God has established in Asia over 50+ years.”
– DS, Entrepreneur, USA
“We are what we are today by God’s Grace! After 51 years together, I marvel how God has sustained us and provided for all our needs. I thank each one for believing in us and encouraging us to thrive together!”
– John Ng, Ph.D.
Chair (Honorary), Eagles Communications Board of Governance
Chief Passionary Officer, Meta Consulting
www.eagles.org.sg/yldp
in 2019
29 Participants from 6 cities
6 Mentors
4 Leadership Retreats
5 New Projects
Having to meet in 3 months for each retreat brings a sense of continual community I’ve never had in any other program. The friendship forums also keep us in touch with each other and it’s so much easier to share in the group during retreats.”
– Lee Yew Leung, Student, Malaysia
“A community with like-minded people to discuss the real things about life.”
– Lee Wei Han, Student, Malaysia
“As the coordinator for YLDP, it has been great witnessing young people from different cities, walks of life and occupations converging together in a spirit of unity and oneness. This cohort of YLDP participants are humble, hungry and hopeful at each retreat.
I truly believe YLDP will propel them further as future leaders who will lead their own generation.”
– Jonjoe Ong, Executive, Leadership Programs, Eagles Communications
www.eagles.org.sg/elc
in 2019
1,303 Participants from 19 countries
51 Speakers
230 Volunteers
7 Leadership Dialogs
10 Masterclasses
23 C-Suite Learning Journeys
63 Coaching Sessions
“I am delighted to have brought both my sons with me, and seeing them learn and grow is touching as a parent. My all-time favorite quote from ELC 2019 is, ‘Quitting is the dumbest thing to do!'”
– Johnny Ting, Lawyer, Malaysia
“ELC has broadened my insights and deepened my relationships with others. I’d like to bring more youths, Thailand’s future, to attend ELC.”
– Sukanda Kongkaew, Educator, Thailand
“2019 was a highlight for me as I was given the opportunity to chair the Eagles Leadership Conference (ELC2019). I saw first-hand how God worked through the 230 volunteers to impact the lives of 1,300+ leaders both locally and regionally.
Eagles has provided me a place to hone my events management skills and has allowed me to find meaning in my work. Thank you for journeying alongside us.”
– Jondave Ong, Events Manager, Eagles Communications
www.nexleaders.com
in 2019
510 Subscribers
20 Courses
5 Content Creators
“Today I’m looking for employees with great values. NEXLeaders.com is the platform I’ve been looking for to nurture value-based persons in their leadership. It’s convenient and easy to use. It makes learning on the go with world-class industry practitioners accessible and very affordable. I believe in it passionately!”
– James Chia, Business Owner, Singapore
“Working on NEXLeaders.com has been an uphill task for me. We took a leap of faith to start the marathon.
I am especially encouraged and humbled by the volunteers who have selflessly contributed to this new ministry. The journey is hard but it’s enjoyable with all of them walking beside us.”
– David Jusuf, Art Director, Eagles Communications
www.eagles.org.sg/er
in 2019
4 Bible Study Cycles
28 Sessions
95 Average Attendance
“ER has given me a unique perspective about Bible application. It makes my Bible reading so much more meaningful and enjoyable as I can connect the Word with everyday life.
Furthermore, the Saturdays spent at ER allow me to serve the Christian community present at Eagles with gratitude.”
– Tan Boon Keng, Financial Consultant, Singapore
“‘Since I gave my heart to Jesus … Every need He is supplying, Plenteous grace He bestows … the longer I serve Him, the sweeter He grows.’
Those words by Bill Gaither reflect my sentiments after serving in this ministry for 51 years. Not least because you have encouraged, supported and participated in this enterprise. Thank you!”
– Peter Chao, Founder, Eagles Communications
www.eagles.org.sg/oasis
in 2019
4 Spiritual Formation Retreats
112 Participants
“I was thankful that my youngest son who just started work joined me at the retreat. I always leave feeling uplifted by the Spirit and encouraged by the messages and conversations that transpired. I felt the stir in my heart as Peter Chao confronted my standing with God.
Although the attendees are people coming from different churches, it did not deter us to bond as one God’s family. I feel refreshed as I have tasted the living water. Feeling blessed.”
– May Kwah, Marketing Consultant, Singapore
“When we started the Oasis Retreat some 20 over years ago, little did I anticipate the impact such a retreat would have on the participants. Many have rededicated themselves to God.
As one who is involved in the planning and running of these retreats, I’ve found it most gratifying when participants say to me they were glad they came – blessed to be a blessing!”
– Mimi Govinden, Senior Vice President, Eagles Communications
“The impact and transformation of lives in the Eagles ministries in the past 51 years are realized through the kindness of friends, encouragement from supporters, and tireless effort of volunteers. Indeed I’m always amazed by such graciousness that is only made possible through God’s intervention in my service and commitment. Thank you!”
– William Tang, Executive Vice President, Eagles Communications
“These last one and a half years serving at Eagles have been challenging and fulfilling. I am thankful to Eagles for letting my son Andrew be part of our new YLDP initiative. It has helped him see how Christian values are at the heart of what he aspires to be and to contribute to society and the world.”
– Tan Mui Tin, Vice President, Eagles Communications
“As I serve in our finance department, I have learned how to stay strong in the Lord, trusting Him to provide for the ministry through donors and pledgers. He is our Almighty God.”
– Jenny Basuki, Account Executive, Eagles Communications
“Seeing lives touched, individuals striving to change, folks encouraged to press on, friendships forged, communities formed, – are some of the joys and reasons for continuing to volunteer in the Eagles ministry. I have been privileged to journey with fellow disciples at Eagles giving us the opportunity to impact lives and make a difference to the people in the spaces that God has allowed our paths to cross.”
– Alison Ling, Associate (Honorary), Eagles Communications
“I am thankful for the six meaningful years to serve with Eagles. Working with volunteers who are always ready to serve alongside us, seeing faithful financial supporters who trust in our ministry, and seeing God touching many lives make me cognizant that this is a worthy calling to pursue.”
– Rut Lufitayanti, IT Executive, Eagles Communications
“I am grateful for the privilege of serving with Eagles, an opportunity I never dreamed possible. To see people get connected to God through this ministry is a special joy that cannot be replaced.”
– Patrick Tan, Logistic Assistant, Eagles Communications
www.eagles.org.sg/arete
in 2019
2 Cohorts
25 Participants
“As a consultant educationist, I provide training to teachers. I have also been privileged to have preaching opportunities. Eagles ARETE preaching course has helped me in my preaching in three ways: polished my skills in hermeneutics and homiletics, formed a community of preachers and provided networks for preaching opportunities.”
www.eagles.org.sg/eppi
in 2019
3 Preaching Conferences
250 Average Attendance
“As a preacher by calling, launching our first preaching conference in 2014 was the capstone of our passion for the ministry of the Word. We thank God for the opportunity to inspire and equip even more communicators of the Word for Singapore and beyond at our 4th conference in July 2020.”
– Michael Tan, President, Eagles Communications
UP NEXT
Journeying with Jesus: Studies in the Gospel of Luke
More than any other Gospel, the Gospel of Luke shows Jesus’ concern for the downtrodden and oppressed, those struggling at the margins of society. In his Gospel, Luke delights to portray Jesus as the Savior, not of an elite group, but of anyone, in any condition who turns to Him.
Our study will not only present the background, purpose and themes of the book, but also highlight the significant places Jesus and His disciples journeyed through. For example, Jesus was born in Bethlehem and grew up in Nazareth; His ministry was centred around Capernaum; finally, Jesus set out for Jerusalem and the Cross. Discipleship is a journey. As we journey with Jesus, we aim to learn from His words and deeds and draw closer to Him.
Free admission by registration. Register at www.eagles.org.sg/er.
JARS OF CLAY
Michael Tan
As we come to the close of our 51st year of ministry, I am reminded of the Apostle Paul’s assessment in 2 Corinthians 4:7 “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”
Ministry over the last five decades has been exhilarating, to say the least. We are grateful for many faithful supporters standing with us, as well as many lives that have been transformed through our programs across Asia and beyond.
Ministry has also been demanding, especially when we were breaking new grounds. The YLDP – Younger Leader Development Program was a new initiative that was started in 2019. We had to learn much about young people between 18 – 25 years of age. It was a steep learning curve but totally necessary.
Then launching our mobile micro-learning platform called NEXLeaders.com was akin to a start-up enterprise that requires cutting edge contents, digital creativity and financial resources. We were stretched to the limits. To encourage value-based leadership in our competitive world is really a daunting task.
To stay alive in ministry and to maintain a sense of balance and perspective is the continual challenge. Here again, we look to the words of the Apostle,“ We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” Well, we may not suffer persecution or hostile opposition like Apostle Paul and his team but we can always emulate their dependence on God for every situation.
What then has kept me going? I can think of three realities.
Firstly, it is by God’s mercy that I have been engaged in this ministry from the time He called the founding members in 1970. “This treasure in jars of clay” is a powerful reminder that any ability to achieve and any strength to serve for the long haul comes from God. As our founding members are definitely not getting younger, we can truly appreciate the metaphor of clay jars! Perhaps now more than ever, it is not difficult for me to stay aware of the earthen vessel that I am. It is certainly a humbling thought that is not depressing!
Secondly, I am a steward of God’s grace. The Apostle Paul declares, “Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart.” Grace and mercy are flip sides of the same coin. We are graced by God. Ministry is spreading God’s grace around. In the Bible, a steward is a person who supervises a household or manages someone’s affairs for him. As a steward of God’s grace I know that I have an awesome responsibility and a glorious privilege. There is a demand upon me to stay prepared – that is, to always be ready to meet the Master, and to be the conduit through which others may meet Him.
Thirdly, as a preacher by calling, I am compelled by the fact that I speak for eternity. The ministry of the Word is what brings eternity into the present and makes the contemporary word take on eternal significance. That is why we believe that preaching is God’s primary means of communicating with us. That is why, as a community, we have been studying the Word regularly for the last 51 years.
As we move forward into the next year, we again take comfort in Apostle Paul’s affirmation: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” Indeed, the best is yet to be!
MINISTRY HIGHLIGHTS
www.eagles.org.sg/eldp
in 2019
22 New Participants for Class of 2021
20 Graduands
5 Leadership Retreats
5 New Projects
“After you get tired of transactional leadership seminars and trainings, come and join ELDP. You’ll not only gain time-tested practical wisdom and content but will become a part of a Christ-centered community and network that God has established in Asia over 50+ years.”
– DS, Entrepreneur, USA
“We are what we are today by God’s Grace! After 51 years together, I marvel how God has sustained us and provided for all our needs. I thank each one for believing in us and encouraging us to thrive together!”
– John Ng, Ph.D.
Chair (Honorary), Eagles Communications Board of Governance
Chief Passionary Officer, Meta Consulting
www.eagles.org.sg/yldp
in 2019
29 Participants from 6 cities
6 Mentors
4 Leadership Retreats
5 New Projects
Having to meet in 3 months for each retreat brings a sense of continual community I’ve never had in any other program. The friendship forums also keep us in touch with each other and it’s so much easier to share in the group during retreats.”
– Lee Yew Leung, Student, Malaysia
“A community with like-minded people to discuss the real things about life.”
– Lee Wei Han, Student, Malaysia
“As the coordinator for YLDP, it has been great witnessing young people from different cities, walks of life and occupations converging together in a spirit of unity and oneness. This cohort of YLDP participants are humble, hungry and hopeful at each retreat.
I truly believe YLDP will propel them further as future leaders who will lead their own generation.”
– Jonjoe Ong, Executive, Leadership Programs, Eagles Communications
www.eagles.org.sg/elc
in 2019
1,303 Participants from 19 countries
51 Speakers
230 Volunteers
7 Leadership Dialogs
10 Masterclasses
23 C-Suite Learning Journeys
63 Coaching Sessions
“I am delighted to have brought both my sons with me, and seeing them learn and grow is touching as a parent. My all-time favorite quote from ELC 2019 is, ‘Quitting is the dumbest thing to do!'”
– Johnny Ting, Lawyer, Malaysia
“ELC has broadened my insights and deepened my relationships with others. I’d like to bring more youths, Thailand’s future, to attend ELC.”
– Sukanda Kongkaew, Educator, Thailand
“2019 was a highlight for me as I was given the opportunity to chair the Eagles Leadership Conference (ELC2019). I saw first-hand how God worked through the 230 volunteers to impact the lives of 1,300+ leaders both locally and regionally.
Eagles has provided me a place to hone my events management skills and has allowed me to find meaning in my work. Thank you for journeying alongside us.”
– Jondave Ong, Events Manager, Eagles Communications
www.nexleaders.com
in 2019
510 Subscribers
20 Courses
5 Content Creators
“Today I’m looking for employees with great values. NEXLeaders.com is the platform I’ve been looking for to nurture value-based persons in their leadership. It’s convenient and easy to use. It makes learning on the go with world-class industry practitioners accessible and very affordable. I believe in it passionately!”
– James Chia, Business Owner, Singapore
“Working on NEXLeaders.com has been an uphill task for me. We took a leap of faith to start the marathon.
I am especially encouraged and humbled by the volunteers who have selflessly contributed to this new ministry. The journey is hard but it’s enjoyable with all of them walking beside us.”
– David Jusuf, Art Director, Eagles Communications
www.eagles.org.sg/er
in 2019
4 Bible Study Cycles
28 Sessions
95 Average Attendance
“ER has given me a unique perspective about Bible application. It makes my Bible reading so much more meaningful and enjoyable as I can connect the Word with everyday life.
Furthermore, the Saturdays spent at ER allow me to serve the Christian community present at Eagles with gratitude.”
– Tan Boon Keng, Financial Consultant, Singapore
“‘Since I gave my heart to Jesus … Every need He is supplying, Plenteous grace He bestows … the longer I serve Him, the sweeter He grows.’
Those words by Bill Gaither reflect my sentiments after serving in this ministry for 51 years. Not least because you have encouraged, supported and participated in this enterprise. Thank you!”
– Peter Chao, Founder, Eagles Communications
www.eagles.org.sg/oasis
in 2019
4 Spiritual Formation Retreats
112 Participants
“I was thankful that my youngest son who just started work joined me at the retreat. I always leave feeling uplifted by the Spirit and encouraged by the messages and conversations that transpired. I felt the stir in my heart as Peter Chao confronted my standing with God.
Although the attendees are people coming from different churches, it did not deter us to bond as one God’s family. I feel refreshed as I have tasted the living water. Feeling blessed.”
– May Kwah, Marketing Consultant, Singapore
“When we started the Oasis Retreat some 20 over years ago, little did I anticipate the impact such a retreat would have on the participants. Many have rededicated themselves to God.
As one who is involved in the planning and running of these retreats, I’ve found it most gratifying when participants say to me they were glad they came – blessed to be a blessing!”
– Mimi Govinden, Senior Vice President, Eagles Communications
“The impact and transformation of lives in the Eagles ministries in the past 51 years are realized through the kindness of friends, encouragement from supporters, and tireless effort of volunteers. Indeed I’m always amazed by such graciousness that is only made possible through God’s intervention in my service and commitment. Thank you!”
– William Tang, Executive Vice President, Eagles Communications
“These last one and a half years serving at Eagles have been challenging and fulfilling. I am thankful to Eagles for letting my son Andrew be part of our new YLDP initiative. It has helped him see how Christian values are at the heart of what he aspires to be and to contribute to society and the world.”
– Tan Mui Tin, Vice President, Eagles Communications
“As I serve in our finance department, I have learned how to stay strong in the Lord, trusting Him to provide for the ministry through donors and pledgers. He is our Almighty God.”
– Jenny Basuki, Account Executive, Eagles Communications
“Seeing lives touched, individuals striving to change, folks encouraged to press on, friendships forged, communities formed, – are some of the joys and reasons for continuing to volunteer in the Eagles ministry. I have been privileged to journey with fellow disciples at Eagles giving us the opportunity to impact lives and make a difference to the people in the spaces that God has allowed our paths to cross.”
– Alison Ling, Associate (Honorary), Eagles Communications
“I am thankful for the six meaningful years to serve with Eagles. Working with volunteers who are always ready to serve alongside us, seeing faithful financial supporters who trust in our ministry, and seeing God touching many lives make me cognizant that this is a worthy calling to pursue.”
– Rut Lufitayanti, IT Executive, Eagles Communications
“I am grateful for the privilege of serving with Eagles, an opportunity I never dreamed possible. To see people get connected to God through this ministry is a special joy that cannot be replaced.”
– Patrick Tan, Logistic Assistant, Eagles Communications
www.eagles.org.sg/arete
in 2019
2 Cohorts
25 Participants
“As a consultant educationist, I provide training to teachers. I have also been privileged to have preaching opportunities. Eagles ARETE preaching course has helped me in my preaching in three ways: polished my skills in hermeneutics and homiletics, formed a community of preachers and provided networks for preaching opportunities.”
www.eagles.org.sg/eppi
in 2019
3 Preaching Conferences
250 Average Attendance
“As a preacher by calling, launching our first preaching conference in 2014 was the capstone of our passion for the ministry of the Word. We thank God for the opportunity to inspire and equip even more communicators of the Word for Singapore and beyond at our 4th conference in July 2020.”
– Michael Tan, President, Eagles Communications
UP NEXT
Journeying with Jesus: Studies in the Gospel of Luke
More than any other Gospel, the Gospel of Luke shows Jesus’ concern for the downtrodden and oppressed, those struggling at the margins of society. In his Gospel, Luke delights to portray Jesus as the Savior, not of an elite group, but of anyone, in any condition who turns to Him.
Our study will not only present the background, purpose and themes of the book, but also highlight the significant places Jesus and His disciples journeyed through. For example, Jesus was born in Bethlehem and grew up in Nazareth; His ministry was centred around Capernaum; finally, Jesus set out for Jerusalem and the Cross. Discipleship is a journey. As we journey with Jesus, we aim to learn from His words and deeds and draw closer to Him.
Free admission by registration. Register at www.eagles.org.sg/er.