Hit Request to Help NLC Elderly

Greetings all Hitmen,

I hope you are well and that this message finds you in good spirits.  I want to make you all aware of a HIT opportunity to help one of most fragile congregants.  The following HIT has been submitted by NLC’s own Dr. Q.

Ms. Alma Johnson elderly on walker - receives home assisted living help as she is in a very weakened condition.  Ms. Johnson has an older son that lives with her; however, he recently suffered a severe stoke and has to tube feed himself.  Further he can no longer talk. 

She lives at 3518 Maryland, Little Rock. Has one other sibling that can't or won't fix her roof and ceiling in living room.  I have been out of town on business travel for a week now and won’t be returning until late next week.  Therefore, any help from you would be appreciated in assessing her need, and our ability to help to fill it. 

If you have the time and heart, please let me know via email at lribich@swbell.net and I will get further details to you as may be available. I have contact information for Dr. Q and another of Ms. Johnson’s friends who can help to get in touch with her.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

Next MAFIA - Bowling Night!

Attention Hitmen – Let’s Help the Gadberry’s

Good Evening Hitmen,

We’ve received a hit request from Bobby Hamilton and Harry Bates this week.  The Gadberry’s, who attend NLC, are both disabled with spinal and neurological issues and can use our assistance with packing and lifting boxes and relocating some to a storage area and others to their new apartment.

The Gadberry’s are a great couple; and, as with most self-employed folks that find themselves disabled, the economy has been difficult on them.  They are really looking forward to our Hitmen stepping out and  helping them get back on course.

Separately, as Mr. Gadberry’s health steadily improves, he is praying and working to reestablish himself in the medical consultancy industry.  If anyone is knowledgeable about opportunities in this area, I encourage you to get word to us so we can let them know.

David Martin will be leading this weekends HIT.  The HIT will happen on Saturday October 31, 2009 from 0800 to about 1130.  David will need approximately 3-4 Hitmen, preferably with covered trucks or SUV’s.  We are also looking to see if we can find an enclosed trailer.

If you are available this weekend to help this couple and partake in the Lord’s work to bless this couple, please call David Martin at 501/681-0584.  You can also email David at david@mpmsi.com.  IF you are unable to participate in the HIT, we do ask that you take some time to pray for this couple’s health and provision in the coming week.

In HIS Service,

Luke Ribich

Calling All Hitmen – Please Support Missionary Friend Greg Miller

Greg Miller is a missionary to Guatemala that spoke to our MAFIA and led the team from our church this past year.  He is having problems getting his furniture moved to Guatemala for full time mission field status. The truck he was using has bit the dust. Jason Christman, Bruce Waters and several other NLC faithful are trying to help he and his family out. Greg will be using Jason's truck to pull a trailer but he needs a trailer! We have decided to put the word that we need a trailer that can be used to haul his belongings there and it will then be returned?

We are looking for 24 foot box trailer.  Alternately we would welcome a 24 foot box truck if available.  Remember, the vehicle needs to be serviceable and capable of cross-border travel.  We estimate the total time for the vehicle to be on loan status to not exceed 4 weeks.

In HIS service,

Luke Ribich

Attention Hitmen: Help Ms. Andrea Move this weekend and enjoy great fellowship in the process!

Greetings Hitmen,

I hope this message finds you all well and in good spirits.  I am emailing you today to solicit you assistance in helping one of our beloved single ladies move this weekend.  We’re going to have a great time as we help one of our favorite greeters in the process.

Andrea Schinker is moving from her first floor apartment in Little Rock at 15511 Capitol Hill Blvd. #518, to her new home at 14 Page Cove in Maumelle.

We will be starting at 9:00 AM and are in need of 6 Hitmen to help out in what is estimated to take no more than two hours.

Andrea has already rented a truck for the move and is getting really anxious to move into Maumelle and closer to so many of her NLC family.  So thanks to all of you who have a couple extra hours to help this great woman of God.

If you are interested in lending a hand, please call Mr. David Martindale and let him know that you will be there.  Call David on his cell at 501/681-0584 .

In HIS service,

Luke Ribich

Remember Pete Hollingsworth Today

Good afternoon Hitmen,

I just wanted to take a brief moment to send a message to our membership asking all our Hitmen to keep Pete in your prayers today.  Pete is having a medical procedure today and we have been asked to keep him in in our thoughts and prayers.

As many of you know Pete is a tremendous leader both at NLC and in our community at large.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

NLC MAFIA & Life In Drive Support CityFest 2009

Greetings Hitmen,

The NLC Mafia has been asked to team with the Life In Drive to partner in affiliation with CityFest 2009 to support our community and gain some recognition in our church and our community. We are also in need of a generator, golf carts or two to pull small trailers of cleared brush, small trailers to be pulled, good power tools (drills/circular saws/gas powered trimmers), any paint supplies (especially extension rods to do ceilings).

The project date is Saturday, September 19, from 0800-1300. Please let me know what level of assistance we can expect from all you Hitmen. Also, if any of you have a connection with the Kroger manager, would you mind introducing us so we can ask for them to partner with us as well? I would like to see them donate water for our crew if possible.

Here is alist of project NLC MAFIA and Life In Drive will be supporting:

• Rebuild the deck of a fishing pier at Lake Willastein
• Repaint the interior of the open bunker near the stage at Lake Willastein
• Light brush clearing from wooded area near bunkers by stage area at Lake Willastein
• Brush clearing at end of lake near Veterans' Memorial at Lake Willastein
• General lakeshore clean-up of Lake Willastein

NLC has partnered with the city of Maumelle to reach the people of our town in a civic-minded fashion to demonstrate Christ's presence.  The City will be providing the materials for the pier project, all we will need is some good MAN-POWER!

Thanks so much, brothers...you guys are all such a blessing to our church and community.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

NLC MAFIA Fantasy Football League Update

Hitmen,

The Draft is scheduled for Sunday @ 8pm.  If you want to participate in the online draft login a few minutes prior to 8pm to make sure you are ready for the start of the draft.

Just a quick reminder…

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?

Greetings Hitmen,

Well it’s here, our beloved favorite pastime – football!  I know, many of you are now thinking, “But Luke, Baseball is America’s pastime.”  My response to that is short and direct, Baseball = Girls Sport!  Don’t believe me, just ask Matt Rush, she likes baseball (oops Freudian slip, sorry Matt).  Anyway, as we prepare to receive a great message from one of the all-time best NCAA coaches, Ken Hatfield, we’re all getting into full swing for a season of fellowship, great catches and super hits, and possibly not all of them on the field!

Actually, Matt, Brian and the crew have done a great job getting us all ready for the first annual NLC Men’s MAFIA Fantasy Football League.  There are still a few of you who signed up that have not yet signed in and created your team.  Please do this ASAP.

We originally planned to have the league set for Auto-Draft, but a few of you asked to do an online-draft.  So, I will schedule on online-draft for this Sunday afternoon/evening.  I will let everyone know tomorrow when the scheduled draft time will be.  If you do not want to do the online-draft, don't worry your team will still be auto-drafted (just like we originally planned).  Those of you who would like to, can login from home and draft your own team at the scheduled draft time.

If you have not joined the league yet, please do so soon.  Here is the link...

http://football.fantasysports.yahoo.com/f1/register/tos?league_id=833863&password=mafia

password: mafia

Good luck to each of you, you’re probably going to need it!

In His service,

Luke Ribich

Coach Ken Hatfield Visits NLC Men's MAFIA

Coach Hatfield is coming on Tuesday 9/8 – ARE YOU?

Greetings Hitmen,

Just a quick reminder that Coach Ken Hatfield will be addressing the MAFIA on Tuesday, September 9, 2009 at 6:30 PM at the Greater Little Rock campus.  The Godfather and I look forward to seeing you there – capiche?

In His service,

Luke Ribich

MAFIA Prayer Request

Good morning Hitmen,

It was brought to the attention of the MAFIA that one of our NLC youth, Aubrey Bradbury, was hurt in a motorcycle accident last evening.  We have been specifically asked to pray for Aubrey and his family in this difficult time.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

Getting to Know Next Month’s MAFIA Special Guest: Coach Ken Hatfield

To say that Ken Hatfield is unique among college football coaches nationally and in Conference USA may be understating a very obvious point. What separates Hatfield from the rest of the coaching profession is his ability to produce champions, both on and off on the field.

As many of you know Coach Hatfield was scheduled to speak to NLC in the fall of 2008.  The evening of the event arrived and many of you turned out to welcome what may consider th4e “Head Hog.”  Unfortunately Coach Hatfield had to cancel at the last minute to be with is beloved wife.  Prayers and blessings have gone out by the NLC Men’s MAFIA Ministry ever since to Coach Hatfield through this difficult year.

On Tuesday September 8th at 6:30 PM Coach Ken Hatfield will be giving a very special make-up appearance at NLC for the MAFIA.  He will be sharing a very personal story based upon his life experiences.  The NLC MAFIA Leadership Team is asking every man and boy to gather up his teammates and pals to hear one of the most influential, humble and impacting figures of faith and football known to Arkansas and the NCAA.

In addition to his legacy at the University of Arkansas, Hatfield has led highly-successful programs at Air Force, Rice and Clemson.  Coach Hatfield was head coach at the U.S. Air Force Academy when the Falcons entered the WAC in 1980, and three years later he was the coach of the year, not only in the league but nationally as well. In his first Rice season, he became only the second Southwest Conference coach to win a league championship at two different schools.

That Hatfield has enjoyed such success in all his coaching stops should come as no shock. To paraphrase the old saying, look up integrity, character and ability in the coaching dictionary, and you'll find Hatfield's picture next to the definitions.

His peers in the coaching profession recognize those qualities in Hatfield's character. An active leader as the 2004 president of the American Football Coaches Association, he is also served as president of the American Football Coaches Foundation, the charitable arm of the AFCA.

The national coach of the year in 1983 at Air Force, the 62-year-old native of Helena, Ark., has been successful at every coaching stop. He led the Air Force to successive bowl trips in 1982-83, then took Arkansas to dominance in the SWC with six bowl trips in his six seasons in Fayetteville. The Houston Post named Hatfield the SWC's coach of the decade in the 1980's. The Razorbacks were league champions in 1988 and '89 before he moved on to Clemson. By winning another title in his first season back in the league, Hatfield joined a short list of SWC coaches who won three straight titles.

Clemson remained one of the best programs in college football under Hatfield. His first team in 1990 compiled a 10-2 record, including a 30-0 win over Illinois in the Hall of Fame Bowl in Tampa, Fla. The '91 squad won the ACC championship, and the '93 team went 8-3 to win a berth in the Peach Bowl vs. Kentucky. All four of his Clemson teams spent time ranked among the nation's top 20 teams.

Hatfield's college playing career was a fitting prelude to his coaching prosperity. An academic all-America selection for Arkansas' 1964 national champions, he led the nation in punt returns in both 1963 and '64 after a second-place finish as a sophomore in 1962. He remains the only college player to finish in the top two in punt returns for three straight seasons and his 16.2 yard average on 70 career returns still ranks 12th in NCAA history.

As most of you are no-doubt aware, his most memorable play took place against Texas in 1964 when he raced 81 yards with a punt return for a touchdown in the Hogs' 14-13 victory. It was the key win in Arkansas' championship season. Altogether, Hatfield scored five TDs on punt returns, including a record 95-yard effort vs. Tulsa in 1963.

He immediately went into coaching after graduation, first at the high school level and then as an assistant coach at Army, Tennessee, Florida and Air Force. In 13 seasons as an assistant, he helped teams to seven bowl games and was part of a SEC championship at Tennessee in 1969.

In 1978, he was named offensive coordinator at Air Force on Bill Parcells' coaching staff. A year later, Parcells was wooed to the professional game and Hatfield had his first head coaching position.

The Falcons had not had a winning season since 1973, but by his fourth season Hatfield had led the Academy to an 8-5 record and a Hall of Fame Bowl win over Vanderbilt. In 1983, the Falcons went 10-2, including wins over Notre Dame, Navy and Mississippi in the Independence Bowl. Hatfield won the Bobby Dodd Award as the national coach of the year and was selected by the American Football Coaches Association as its national honoree.

Returning to Arkansas in 1984, the Razorbacks became the SWC's dominant team during his tenure. His Arkansas squads compiled a 55-17-1 record and appeared in the Liberty, Holiday, Orange and Cotton Bowls. The 1988-89 teams won SWC championships and he was the league's coach of the year in '88.

At Clemson in 1990-93, Hatfield compiled a 32-13-1 record, topped by the 10-2 mark in '90 and the ACC title in '91.

Hatfield-coached teams have excelled offensively and defensively, but they have been particularly successful in rushing offense and defense. Each of his last 18 teams have finished in the top-20 nationally in rushing offense, including 10 top-10 finishes. The 2002 Owls were second nationally, only trailing Nebraska in the category. In 2003, Rice again ranked second, this time trailing Navy. Two of his last four Arkansas teams finished in the top three in the country in turnover margin, including the '88 team which has first in the nation. Defensively, his clubs have finished in the top 15 in rushing defense in six of the last 11 years. In 1990, Clemson was first nationally in total defense, second in rushing defense and second in scoring defense.

An accounting major who earned his degree in 1965, Hatfield was the recipient of the Swartz Award, presented annually to Arkansas' top student-athlete. The 1964 all-SWC pick was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame in 1989 and was a member of the Razorbacks' all-time team selected to celebrate the university's grid centennial in 1994.

He is widowed and survives his wife Sandy Wright of Kennett, Mo., a champion cowgirl who competed as a barrel-racer on the professional rodeo circuit.

ATTENTION ALL HITMEN – NLC Needs A HIT!

Greetings Hitmen,

I hope that this message finds you all well and in good spirits.  As many of you know, the old church campus has been for sale or lease since our congregation moved out last Summer.  That said, a lesser has been found and the church’s remnants need to be removed to our MAFIA storage units in order to properly prepare the facilities for its new tenant.

We are going to schedule at least one, if not two, times to meet and remove the NLC items from the old building.  We are scheduling our first HIT for this Wednesday (August 19, 2009) at 6:00 PM.  We will meet at the old church and load-out the items to the MAFIA storage unit(s) at the Gateway Storage facility on Maumelle Blvd.  The remaining items include a few beds, chairs and other furnishing odds and ends.  We will plan on working on the HIT only until about 8:30 PM so that those of you with families will be able to be home early enough to check the kids homework!

I am asking any volunteers to call me on my cell at 501/944-0562 and let me know your ability to be there.  I really would like to get at least 6 to 8 bodies so that we can expedite things and possibly avoid the Saturday option.

In His Service,

Luke Ribich

THE MAFIA RETREAT IS COMMING – HERE’S THE SCOOP!

Greetings Hitmen,

I hope your Summer is proving to be safe, restful and enjoyable – BUT I KNOW ITS NOT.  Let’s face it, you’ve been mowing the grass since early Spring and you could use a break, the MAFIA Team is here to help.  Come join us at the MAFIA R3VIVE Retreat this July.  We will be gathering at Greer’s Ferry for a relaxing time where we will be encouraged through fellowship, humor and the masculine leadership of Pastor Mark Pagley.

John Craft will be sharing more about the MAFIA R3VIVE Retreat at the next MAFIA Meeting on Tuesday, 14 July.  But here’s the high points to peak your interest.

• Dates – Friday July 24th and 25^th
• Leave church at 5:15 Friday
• Staying at Narrows Inn
• Costs – Golfers and fishermen - $100 plus food, canoes - $80 plus food and others $50 plus food

• Agenda –

1. Dinner will be Friday evening at Bentley’s Restaurant with message by Mark Pagley
2. Rest of evening free
3. Breakfast Saturday morning at 6:30 at Bentley’s
4. Divide up for golf, fishing, and more…
5. We’ll return home Saturday afternoon

Registration is Tuesday (tomorrow) at MAFIA meeting – feel free to call John Craft with questions or if you cannot be at meeting (765-1430)

MAFIA Reminder - GOLF Outing

Greeting Hitmen:

 

This Tuesday is the June MAFIA meeting.  We have a great event planned and are looking forward to a golf demonstration and the MAFIA Golf Flight Challenge.  On “par” for Tuesday’s event is:

• We will eat at 6:30
• Our own Bobby Wilson will do a long drive demo and then coordinate a long drive, putting and chipping contest
• John will share a BRIEF thought for the month and talk about the upcoming Revive Men’s Retreat

As a reminder, we will be meeting at the Driving Range on Counts Massie Rd.  Come early and check out the great event.

 

In His service,

Luke Ribich

 

Ozark Mission Project Seeks the MAFIA's Support

Greetings HITMEN:

 

The NLC G-Life Ministries will be sending 20 kids and 5 adults to Texarkana June 7-11 with Ozark Mission Project. To learn about the vision of the OMP visit them online at www.ozarkmissionproject.org.

 

NLC will be joining 4 other churches at this camp to work for families in and around the Texarkana area.  Of the 5 adults going - two are 24/7 students and one is a single mom.  Each of the drivers are required to have certain tools in their vehicle throughout the week. 

 

The NLC OMP team is asking the men of the MAFIA to consider loaning any of the tools on the following list.  Basically they are looking for tools for the three drivers.  These tools will stay with the same adult (from our church) in their vehicle the entire week.

 

If you have questions or need additional information please call Tim Cummins at 501.339.7610.

 

Tool / Item	Needed
5 gallon water cooler	2 ea
Adapter (electric)	6 ea
Broom	2 ea
Brush (scrub)	4 ea
Brush (wire)	3 ea
Ratchet Tie Downs	6 ea
Caulk Gun & Caulk	2 ea
Chalk Line	2 ea
Circular Saw (w/ new blade)	2 ea
Extension Cord (50')	2 ea
File (sharpening)	2 ea
Hand Saw	2 ea
Jig Saw	3 ea
Level (24")	2 ea
Paint Scraper	3 ea
Power Drill w/ a variety of bits	2 ea
Pruning Saw	2 ea
Carpenter Square (24")	3 ea
Speed Square	3 ea
Staple Gun	2 ea
Tin Snips	3 ea
Wrecking Bar	3 ea

 

MAFIA Lifestyle Challenge

Greetings HITMEN,

In furtherance to this month’s MAFIA meeting John and I wanted to ensure that all of our “associates” were able to participate in the MAFIA Lifestyle Challenge that was shared by John Craft.  Of those of you who were unfortunately unable to be with  us this month, John shared a message from Pastor Mark Pagley’s heart about the importance of daily devotion, thanksgiving, outreach and disciplined accountability.  This discussion challenged the MAFIA HITMEN to grow their relationship wit the Lord in a variety of ways.  The following in provided for you to pray about, it is our hope that you will join us as we challenge ourselves and our brothers in Christ.

Mafia – Lifestyle Challenge

Morning Prayer : God today, give me an understanding mind and a hearing heart, that I may discern the difference between good and evil, and have the wisdom to lead myself, my family and the people you place in my pathway well, in Jesus Name, Amen

Daily Reading – see below Reading Plan for suggested books/chapters/verses

Worship- Stop and take a moment each day to reflect on 1 thing you are thankful for, then look to heaven and give God thanks !!

Prayer – For God to help you become consistent in making Him a priority in your everyday life.

Journal/Highlight – Take a moment to write or Highlight a thought you had from your time with God.

Memorize- Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart ; do not depend on your own understanding. vs.6 Seek His will in all you do and He will show you what path to take.

Jeremiah 42:6 – whether easy or difficult, we will obey the voice of the Lord, so it will be well with me !

Friends or Family Challenge - Take 10 minutes once a week, gather family or a few friends – Ask each person to write down 1 thing most thankful for and thank God together through Prayer – Or Write Down most important prayer request then read Matthew 18:19 and pray together for those requests.

Outreach Challenge - Pick one person from your everyday world that really needs God – then make a move towards helping them find Him –

> through praying for them daily to find him,

> through inviting them to a meal and encouraging them towards God > Or by inviting them to Church

Accountability Challenge - Find one person to be your accountability person. Call each other 1-2 times each week for next 2 weeks to encourage each other and talk about how you are doing with your Challenges

Reading Plan

Day 1 – Acts 1 :1-11 (Thought -What one thing would you be sure to do if you knew Jesus was coming back today ?)

Day 2 – Acts 1:12-26

Day 3 – Acts 2:1-13

Day 4 – Acts 2:14-20

Day 5 – Acts 2:41-3:11 (Thought – What part of the early Church Days would you have enjoyed ?)

Day 6 – Acts 3:12-4:4

Day 7 – Acts 4:5-22

Day 8 – Acts 4 :23-37

Day 9 - Acts 5:1-16

Day 10 – Acts 5 :17-42

Thanks Pastor Mark!  If any of you are moved to accept this challenge and aren’t sure who you can reach out to to be in accountability to, drop me a line at lribich@asigllc.com and I’ll work with you to find a MAFIA friend to share the challenge with. Then be sure to let us know who is taking the MAFIA Lifestyle Challenge!  We cannot wait to hear your stories.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

IS ANY HITMAN AN HVAC PROFESSIONAL?

Greetings HITMEN,

I hope that each of you had a safe, restful and reviving Memorial Day Holiday – NOW GET BACK TO WORK!  Just kidding, actually I am reaching out to see if any of our HITMEN are out-of-work; or, could use additional work, HVAC repair professionals.  As most of you know I often have a need to garner various professional support in the planning of our HITS.  This time however, I am the one in need of an HVAC professional and would love to, if possible, hire out the services of a professionally licensed HVAC technician HITMAN to do some paid work at my home.  If any of you are interested, please contact Luke Ribich at 501/944-2189.

I wish you all a safe and enjoyable Summer and cannot wait to see you all at the next MAFIA meeting on Tuesday June 9th.

Regards,

Luke Ribich

ATTENTION NLC HITMEN – HELP NEEDED THIS FRIDAY: MAY 22, 2009

Greetings Hitmen,

I have been advised by the Godfather that there is a single mom who is new to our church and did not know about MAFIA until this past weekend. She has her furniture stored in a mini warehouse in Maumelle and is moving into an apartment this FRIDAY. We have advised her that with the short notice and that it was during the week that although this is a tough one, we know your hearts and that you love to serve the ladies of NLC. Several of you have indicated that you would be available for short notice hits during the week so here’s your chance. Let’s all see who we can round-up and give this sister a helping hand.

Her name is Crystal Fenley and she can be reached at 501-607-1897.  as I am on travel currently, I would really appreciate one of our Hit Captains stepping up and taking point on this hit.  feel free to let me know if we will require any unusual or additional resources.

Regards,

Luke Ribich

Don’t Forget Mafia Tonight!

HITMEN!

Don’t forget tonight’s NLC MAFIA Meeting!  Tonight’s Speaker will be Missionary Leader Greg Miller!  Some of you may have experienced his support and leadership during this year’s Guatemala Missions Trip.

A meal and childcare will be provided courtesy of the MAFIA ministries.  The meeting starts tonight at 6:30 PM in the NLC GLR Family Room.  The New Life Church Greater Little Rock campus is located at 8000 Crystal Hill Road, North Little Rock.  If you have any questions please call the church at 501/812-LIFE (5433) or John Craft at 501/851-1408, via email at craft@craftveach.com.

Come join us for masculine fellowship, accountability encouragement, discipleship and prayer.  We’ll see you there.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

MAFIA Meeting April 14th, 2009

Servants do Every Task with Equal Dedication

"Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won't be faithful in large ones. If you cheat even a little, you won't be honest with greater responsibilities" (Luke 16:10 NLT).

Wow!  I mean that piece of the Word pretty much sums it up.  The following posting has been adapted from the devotional series from Rick Warren and I really felt hat it was appropriate to our MAFIA Men’s ministry.  The fact is our HITS (Helping In The Spirit) aren’t always easy or “fun,” but they are always helpful.

As we enter this Spring season all our schedules are hectic, but I encourage each of you to take some time out of your schedule to both read the following daily devotional; and, to schedule some time to assist or lead on of our MAFIA HITS. We are all challenged by circumstances in our life: wife, work, children, etc. – but it continues to amaze me in how the Lord works in situations.  I’ve never really be down or melancholy when in the act of performing a hit, though I’ve been faced with a difficult issue. Generally in the end I’ve received a good reprieve from that which bothers me and the fellowship often reveals encouragement and solutions as a result of my servant hood.  Not that this is a reason to get involved with HITS, but isn’t it great how He rewards our faithfulness.

As you read this message, remember that the NLC MAFIA believes that our faithfulness is demonstrated by our MAFI-Action!  Are you a man of action? Thanks for sharing this Pastor Harry, thanks to Rick Warren for his inspiring words, and thanks to each of you whom have blessed so many of us with an opportunity to to be of service through our HITS ministry.

Servants do every task with equal dedication. Whatever they do, servants "do it with all their heart" (Colossians 3:23 NIV).

The size of the task is irrelevant. The only issue is, does it need to be done?

You will never arrive at the state in life where you're too important to help with menial tasks. God will never exempt you from the mundane. It's a vital part of your character curriculum. The Bible says, "If you think you are too important to help someone in need, you are only fooling yourself. You are really a nobody" (Galatians 6:3 NLT).

It is in these small services that we grow like Christ.
Jesus specialized in menial tasks that everyone else tried to avoid: washing feet, helping children, fixing breakfast, and serving lepers. Nothing was beneath him, because he came to serve. It wasn't in spite of his greatness that he did these things, but because of it, and he expects us to follow his example (John 13:15).

Small tasks often show a big heart. Your servant's heart is revealed in little acts that others don't think of doing, as when Paul gathered brushwood for a fire to warm everyone after a shipwreck (Acts 28:3).

He was just as exhausted as everyone else, but he did what everyone needed. No task is beneath you when you have a servant's heart.

Great opportunities often disguise themselves in small tasks. The little things in life determine the big things. Don't look for great tasks to do for God. Just do the not-so-great stuff, and God will assign you whatever he wants you to do.

There will always be more people willing to do "great" things for God than there are people willing to do the little things. The race to be a leader is crowded, but the field is wide open for those willing to be servants.

Sometimes you serve upward to those in authority, and sometimes you serve downward to those in need. Either way, you develop a servant's heart when you're willing to do anything needed.

Current Hit Opportunities

Hitmen,

 

I mentioned this previously but wanted to take a moment to reiterate the following needs we are trying to fill within the church community.

 

Hit #1:  Move of Time & Janie Culwell

They are planning to move on Saturday morning the 3rd of April from 400 Valencia Drive 1414 Maumelle, Arkansas to 112 East Palm Lonoke Arkansas. There will be no appliances except a washer and dryer. Everything else will be boxed. There are 2 bedroom suits and a small couch and etc. Tim will have his Exide delivery Truck for moving there to be loaded.   If you are available to help fulfill this hit, please contact Tim or Janie at 501.590.4857 or 501.590.1973.

 

Hit #2: Move of Jerry & Joelda Hope

The update on the Hope move is that they are going to start moving at 5:00 on Wednesday April 1st and are moving the following:

    1. 2 bedrooms

    2. 1 sofa

    3. 1 coffee table

    4. 1 piano

    5. 2 side chairs

They have taken care of the boxes and "small stuff". The move is from the Diamond Point sub-division to the Lexington Apts. Behind the Valero C-Store.  John Craft will be on site at this hit beginning at 5:00 PM.

 

In His service,

Luke Ribich

HITMEN - HELP US MOVE JERRY & JOELDA HOPE

Good afternoon HITMEN,

Some of our very own, Jerry & Joelda Hope, are moving on Wednesday, April 1^st, and we want to be there to help.  If you are off for the day or otherwise have time to help out, please come out and help us move the Hope’s as the move from their old house in Maumelle, to a new home also here in Maumelle.  They are hoping to garner the support of 5 or 6 HITMEN to help the move get finished as quickly as possible and designate more MAFIA Captains through our HITS outreach ministry.  Of course they will be packed and household appliance will need to be moved.  Please contact me at 501/944-0562, or via e-mail at lribich@asigllc.com, for Jerry & Joelda’s contact info if you are interested in helping.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

Tim & Janie Culwell HITS, UPDATED INFO

HITMEN,

This just in… I have been advised that the date for the Culwell move has been rescheduled for the morning of Saturday April 4^th.  Please be advised and plan accordingly.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

Great Blessing to Share & a HITS Opportunity for All

Good afternoon HITMEN:

I have been advised that Tim & Janie Culwell are purchasing their first home together, something they weren’t sure was going to happen in the current economic condition.  They are extremely relieved and are confident that this blessing is truly a God thing.  To that end, a HITS request has been submitted from one of our fellow Mafioso’s and we would love to Tim & Janie by getting a team of 4 or 5 HITMEN together to help them move on Saturday March 28^th, from their apartment in Maumelle to their new home at 112 East Palm St. in Lonoke.

They already have a large box truck available and a dolly; and, when speaking with them today, they have indicated that they will have all their items box packed in advance so it should go really quickly.  Also, please note that they report that there are no major appliances to move either.  If you are Spirit led to support this couple and help build them up in Christ as they transition into their new home, please contact me at 501/944-0562, via email at lribich@asigllc.com, or leave a message on the blog website.  Don’t forget, it only takes participation in one HITS outreach to garner a prized MAFIA HITS tee-shirt!  Thanks to all you HITMEN for all you do.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

ATTENTION HITMEN: CALLING ALL CONTRACTORS FOR A HITS OPPORTUNITY

Good morning HITMEN:

I hope this message finds you well and in good spirits.  I am sending out a request to all of you HITMEN as I am searching for someone with residential repair/remodeling/contractor experience.  Specifically, I am looking for one of you with these skills to join me this Saturday afternoon for about an hour and help me to evaluate the repairs and most importantly create a bill of materials to support some home repairs for an elderly woman from North Little Rock.  One of our own has submitted a HITS request to me and by the grace of God, the E.C. Barton & Company has generously agreed to supply (donate) the materials needed to complete the job – now we just need to let them know what we will need to do the work.

If you are interested and available, please contact me at your earliest convenience and let me know your experience and availability to survey this job with me.  Alternately, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me, in either case you may reach me at (501) 771-9388 or via email at lribich@asigllc.com.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

 

 

Men's Paintball Outing

Guys,

Mark your calendars! On March 21 at 10:00 AM a group of men from the Journey & MAFIA ministries will be at Paintball Arkansas in Mayflower for a day of fun. Make sure you invite the guys in your life groups, friends, or basically anyone you want to shoot, but no wives! A group rate has been negotiated and NLC will have the entire park to ourselves. The group rate includes all of your gear and equipment as follows:

-$15 per person incl. 100 paintballs

-$30 per person incl. 500 paintballs

-Extra paintballs can be purchased $5 for 100

-They do accept credit cards (except Am. Express)

For more information on the equipment and directions go to www.paintballarkansas.com

Do NOT use MapQuest for directions or it will take you longer to get there. Prepayment is not required. However, I do need you to RSVP NO LATER THAN 3/19 with number of guests. To RSVP, email Jeff Knoedl at knoedl@sbcglobal.net.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

2009 MAFIA Olympics Round-up!

Greetings all Hitmen,

What a night we all had at the old campus last evening.  The NLC Greater Little Rock MAFIA held its 2^nd Annual MAFIA Olympics – and we had a great time.  As John Craft was not able to be with us due to prior obligations, the event was MC’d by our very own Bobby Wilson.  The competition was spirited and closer in the end than we expected early on in the evening.

The Bagg-O completion, Basketball Shoot-Out and Precision Putt-Off rounded out the team skill events. And while they proved pretty interesting to watch, nothing worked the guys into a greater frenzy than the Human Tractor Pull (aka: Bungie Run)!  The competition was pretty fierce from the beginning with some come from behind shows late in the games but in the end it proved to be the team with the greatest stamina and will to win that prevailed under the grueling physical, emotional and culinary stresses of the Speed Hot Dog Eating Contest!

It was this sports fans greatest pleasure to be involved with the 2009 MAFIA Olympics.  Winning this year’s event with a composite score of 98.0 was team,  Rickey “The Sausage” Bezet.  Team Bezet was led by MAFIA Captain Matt Rush, who was last year’s Grand Champion in the 2008 MAFIA Bagg-O Tourney.  Rounding out Team Bezet were Co-Captain Elliott Carr Rodney Lehman, Christian Slais, Rodney Blackwell and Jason Washam.  One point that should be noted, Team Bezet’s stellar performance was hampered by their dismal show in the Precision Putt-Off, will the real Rick Bezet please stand up!  All the teams did great and had a great time.  The Remaining Teams faired as follows:

2nd Place: 87.85	Team: Mel “Guido” Amrine
Co-Capt	Ryan Ray
Co-Capt	Jason Cathey
Player 1	Justin Parks
Player 2	Steve Richeson
Player 3	Keith Gross
Player 4	Dave Hughes

 

3rd Place: 78.67	Team: Tye “The Knot” Heffner
Co-Capt	Rolland Pennington
Co-Capt	Aaron Henson
Player 1	Chad Meyer
Player 2	Tim Gross
Player 3	Bret Brownderville
Player 4	Andy Garber

 

4th Place: 71.67	Team: Bobby “Toes” Hamilton
Co-Capt	Bruce Waters
Co-Capt	Craig Brzezinski
Player 1	Corey Dunn
Player 2	Dennis Gantzler
Player 3	Darin Plate
Player 4	Opie

 

5th Place: 54.3	Team: Mark “Soprano” Pagley
Co-Capt	David Lane
Co-Capt	Mike Tucker
Player 1	Cary Chism
Player 2	Christopher Stacey
Player 3	Paul McAllister
Player 4	Troy Robinson

 

If you have any suggestions for next year’s event, please drop us a line or leave a comment on the blog site and let us know, we would love your feedback.  Join me in congratulating all the contestants when you see them around town or the church.  For those of you who were unable to attend, we hope to see you next year – and of course next month.

 

In His service,

Luke Ribich

Childcare for tonight's MAFIA Olympics

All,

 

Please remember that tonight’s MAFIA is a special event and is being held at the old NLC Maumelle Campus.  Nonetheless, childcare will still be provided by the new campus as usual.  We’ll see you all there!

 

In His service,

Luke Ribich

 

MAFIA Meeting 3/10/09 @ 6:30 PM OLD NLC CAMPUS!

Next MAFIA Meeting: Tuesday, Mar. 10, 2009 @ 6:30 PM

Greetings all,

 

This is just a reminder that the next NLC MAFIA meeting will be next Tuesday at the old NLC Maumelle Campus.  For those of you who do not know where that is, it is located just off Maumelle Blvd., behind the Shell gas station, on the corner of Maumelle Blvd. and Counts Massie Road.

 

This next meeting is going to be a blast!  We are having our next edition of the MAFIA Olympics. This will be a time for you to compete and show off all your strength, skills and techniques.  Especially in the very first hot dog eating contest!  I don’t know about you but I think that Brucie-Bruce “Sirchie Chadeos” (aka: Sausage Fingers) Waters will take the prize there, especially after finishing the Guatemala Missions trip!  See you there!

 

In His service,

Luke Ribich

Rental Property

Good evening Hitmen:

 

If anyone has rental property in the NLR or Sherwood areas with a rental rate of between $900 & $1000 per month, please contact me at lribich@asigllc.com and let me know.  In a continuation to this morning’s plea for your support, we are seeking to serve and lift-up additional residents of Cedar Street in NLR that are being displaced by unstable ground beneath their homes.

 

Separately, we are all so proud of those who helped out in today’s last minute HIT.  Please join me in personally thanking the following MAFIA HITMEN:

·         Scott Grummer

·         Ned Beaver

·         Cary Chism

·         Jason Cathey

·         Aaron Henson

 

Have a great evening and we’ll see you around church this weekend.

 

In His service,

Luke Ribich

 

FW: Steve and Amy Lassaigne

ATTENTION ALL HITMEN!

I am forwarding the following message from Pastor Bates. This notice is an urgent request for action to support one of our Journey coupled in dire need of support. In short, they are at immediate risk of loosing their house as it is slipping down a hillside. They need our help TODAY! They also have a three (3) week old baby so they aren't prepared for this at all. PLEASE HELP THIS FAMILY OUT IF YOU HAVE ANY TIME. (see below)

Contact John Craft at (501) 765-1430 for their details.

Regards,
Luke Ribich

Hit at Audubon Pointe Retirement Home Saturday, 2/21/09

Good evening Hitmen,

The following HIT request has been sent down from "The Godfather" (aka: John Craft) and Mr. Don Greenwell of our Primetime Ministries. This weekend the NLC MAFIA is planning a HIT on the Audubon Point Retirement Home located next to Lake Willistein. We will be helping 80 year old Ms. Barbara Owens of our very own Primetime Ministries load her belongings into a Penske moving truck and head out to California to spend the rest of her retirement with family. Ms. Owens has a small 2-room apartment at Audubon Point and she could use our help loading up. In the event that you are not aware, the facility has an elevator so bringing her belongings down will be pretty stress free.

The Plan:

The MAFIA Hitmen will meet at 0745 at Kerrie's Kountry Kitchen for breakfast fellowship and prayer. After our meal we will be going over to the retirement home to "knock it out" about 0900. Based upon past practice, I don't expect the hit to take more than an hour, provided we get 5 or 6 Hitmen involved.

The Contact:

Those interested in helping should contact Luke Ribich at lribich@asigllc.com or on his cell at (501) 944-0562. Once a team ready to serve, the list will be sent to Mr. Craft and Mr. Greenwell so they will know who to expect.

In His service,

Luke Ribich

NLC MAFIA Seeks Reliable Transportation

Greetings All Hitmen,

I trust that everyone had a great weekend and enjoyed the start of Pastor Rick's new series titled, "Blood & Water." We thought it was a great message and know that many of you are considering "taking the plunge" and/or other public professions of your faith in Christ Jesus. Members of the MAFIA leadership team will be there to share in your special moment and to encourage you as you grow closer to Him.

On a separate note, we wanted to take a brief moment to let you all know how very proud of your service we are. In the last several weeks we have modernized our communications a bit and it seems to be paying huge dividends. More than ever we have faithful, strong and humble men offering to serve the body of Christ and the entire community more and more each day. All we can say is thank you and may your blessing be returned to you two fold. Keep up all the hard work.

Today we have become aware of a need one of our very own has. One of our own HITMEN has been in a car accident and is seeking our assistance in helping him find an inexpensive vehicle for purchase so that he can continue to look for work. That said we would love to see the Lord provide for a donated vehicle if at all possible. If He can use you or your unused vehicle to realize this need, Please contact me by leaving a comment on the blog message board, by emailing me at lribich@swbell.net or via telephone at 501/944-0562.

Thank you again for all you do. You are making huge differences in the lives of many deserving people each and every day. Together We Can!

In His service,

Luke Ribich

The MAFIA is in search of Refrigerator!

All,

The NLC MAFIA is looking to help one of our very own find a serviceable refrigerator. The economy is hurting us all and this time one of our friends has lost his family's refrigerator. Anyone with either a donation or a cheap used refrigerator, please leave us a comment in response to this blog post, email me at lribich@swbell.net or call me at (501) 944-0562.

Regards,

Luke Ribich

The Union Rescue Mission Needs the MAFIA’s help!

Hitmen,

I hope this message finds you well and in good spirits. The MAFIA is planning a HUGE HIT on the Little Rock Union Rescue Mission. In our planning for this HIT we have identified a need to fill the following Bill of Materials (BOM). Once we have been able to acquire the following BOM we will be remodeling and making serviceable a bathroom at the mission that is currently unusable. If you, or any of your personal or professional contacts are in a position to aid us in gathering any of these materials it would be greatly appreciated. Should you have any questions about any of these materials, please feel free to contact me either by leaving a message here on the blog, via email at lribich@swbell.net or by cell at (501) 944-0562. Thanks to Rick Ramirez for all his support in compiling this list.

Needed Materials

1. 2 ea. boxes of ceiling tiles
   
2. 1 ea. case of New Orleans style floor tiles
   
3. 1 ea. vanity top
   
4. 1 ea. vanity
   
5. 1 ea. faucet
   
6. 1 ea. can of insulating spray foam
   
7. 2 ea. gallons of Royal Blue paint
   
8. 1 ea. 2' x 4' light cover
   
9. 4 ea. T-12 lights
   
10. 1 ea. light ballast for T-12 fixture
    
11. 1 ea. 2' x 4' light fixture
    
12. 6 ea. standard plate covers (for contractor wall boxes)
    
13. 3 ea. ½" copper fitting caps for plumbing
    
14. 4 ea. standard size sheet rock panels
    
15. 1 ea. 5 gallon bucket of compound texture (aka: wall mud)
    
16. 2 ea. rolls drywall tape
    
17. 1 ea. 6' x 12' x 1" white, veneer shelving
    
18. 1 ea. toilet bowl
    
19. 1 ea. toilet wax ring
    

The Union Rescue Mission (URM) helps the homeless regain their dignity and self-esteem with programs providing Christian counseling to offer hope for the future. URM and Dorcas Houses, a ministry of URM, provide emergency services such as food, shelter, clothing, transportation to medical and legal appointments, counseling, and crisis intervention to their clients – providing the support needed to rebuild their lives. For more information about the Union Rescue Mission and its programs or to make a donation, you can log on to www.urmission.org. We at NLC, and especially in the MAFIA love the URM team for all the great work they are doing to help Central Arkansas. Keep it up!

Next MAFIA Meeting - Tuesday, February 10, 2009 @ 6:30 PM

NLC MAFIA to HIT a Family in Need in Conway!

Good afternoon HITMEN,

Pastor Harry Bates has asked the NLC MAFIA to support he and the Journey ministry as NLC reaches out to help, heal and minister to all those in need in Central Arkansas. In our service of this mission, the NLC MAFIA seek four (4) of our very own HITMEN to volunteer to Help In the Spirit, by delivering two beds and couches, from the OLD Maumelle Campus, and deliver them to a deserving family in the Conway area. This HIT will be on Saturday, February 7, 2009 at 0800.

If you are interested in volunteering serve in this HIT opportunity, please contact me, Luke Ribich, via email at lribich@asigllc.com or on my cell at (501) 944-0562. I will be looking for two individuals with trucks or trailers to load and drive the furniture; and, two individuals to help load and deliver the items.

Until next time remember, NLC MAFIA – MEN AFTER FAITH, INTEGRITY & ACTION!

NLC & MAFIA to HIT Clay Co. on 2-1-09

ATTENTION ALL HITMEN!

New Life Church & the NLC MAFIA are making a bottled and potable water run to aid the communities of Clay County Arkansas. Clay County has been severely hit by the recent inclement weather leaving the entire county without power services. Corning County is a rural area and most of its residents receive drinking water from well sources. Without power to run the pumps the area is critically low on drinking and cooking water.

A team will be departing the NLC Greater Little Rock's campus on Sunday, February 1, 2009 at 0900 – that's 9:00 AM for you non-military types – full of potable and bottled water. If you are interested in participating or donating to this cause, bring your donations to the church, prior to 0900 on Sunday morning. We are still looking for more drivers with trucks, vans or SUVs to help in the carriage of the donations to the city of Corning, AR. If you would like to join the driving team, please contact Mr. Jeff Allison on his cell at (501) 831-2325.

Hit Opportunity Saturday 1/24/09

Greeting Hitmen,

Tomorrow we have a hit scheduled to assist one of our elderly single ladies with raking leaves and minor yard waste removal. However to date we have one volunteer. Therefore I wanted to give all of you a nudge and ask that if you have some time tomorrow between 0830 and 1100 we could use your help. We will be meeting at Kerries at 0800 for a quick bite and then off for a quick and fun filled hit, to help Ms. Heber in the spirit. We hope to see you there!

Next Mafia Meeting: Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2009

This Month‘s MAFIA Meeting:

When: Tuesday, January 13 2009 @ 6:30 P.M.
Where: New Life Church GLR Campus in the G-Life/Real Life Room
Childcare: Provided - No Charge
Food: Catering by Maumelle's Beef O'Brady's
Speaker: BOBBY HAMILTON

Speaker's Message: 2009 NLC Vision & How to be a "Man on a Mission"

Executive Pastor, NLC GLR Campus. Pastor Hamilton will share a message of vision and hope for the church as we begin 2009 as men on a mission to reach all of Arkansas with the restoring Word of God. This will be an excellent opportunity to evaluate your talents and consider how God can use you to positively impact the lives of others. The MAFIA Team and Beef O'brady's will provide a meal for this month’s event. We look forward to seeing you there!