I hang out with a bunch of pastor friends twice a year, and we share our favorite “things” from the last six months.

Since we have come to the end of 2022, I figured I’d share ten things I loved this year (two of which came from my aforementioned pastor friends). I’m also opening up the comments on this post so you can share some of your favorites with me.

Here they are in no particular order.

Motorcycling

I’m not sure why it took me so long, but I started riding a motorcycle this year. It is nothing like I thought it would be, but way better. For those of you worried about my safety, I subscribe to the ATGATT methodology, so I am always geared up.

Jesus and Gender by Elyse Fitzpatrick and Eric Schumacher

This was the best book I read this year. It was a punch in the gut, a roadmap, and an inspiration. No other book I read this year impacted my daily life and work as much as this one.

Adult Children

I have truly enjoyed every stage of being a dad (despite the obvious challenges of each), but I really really love being a dad of adult children. Watching this young woman and these young men spread their wings while maintaining a close relationship with the family has been a joy.

Andor

When I am watching a Star Wars film or series, I am usually acutely aware that I am partaking in that genre. With Andor, I was caught up in the story and the characters. Only occasionally did I remember I was watching a franchise film. I can’t wait for more.

Riv’s New Mission Statement

Our mission statement at Riv embodies so much of the hope I have for our church and community. I can’t wait to see us live this out more in the coming years.

At Riv, we invite everyone to know and enjoy Jesus as we stumble together in our pursuit to love like Him.

Smoking a Pipe

I’ve always enjoyed smoking cigars, but I picked up a pipe this year. Maybe it’s because I’m a little older, but I enjoy how patient you must be to smoke a pipe.

And it smells great in my beard.

Remarkable

I used to take notes in Moleskine notebooks, and while I love pencil and paper, it’s not easy to find old notes when you are committed to handwriting. I tried using my iPad, but I am too easily distracted by notifications and that sort of thing. My friend Ryan convinced me to try Remarkable, and I am hooked. It’s a bit pricey (a lot pricey), but it’s worth it if you write all day long.

Brazil

Riv supports a lot of church planting work in Brazil, and this year, I got to travel across the country, connecting with amazing leaders doing boots-on-the-ground work there. It’s incredible to see what God has done in that country since we started working there.

Working Genius

I’m a big fan of personality profiles because they are very helpful tools for understanding yourself and others. My friend Brian recommended Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni, and it has been so helpful. It helps you understand why you love some types of work and are drained by others.

Chris Stapleton

I know, I know, I know. I am repeatedly on record for hating country music.

But have you listened to Chris Stapelton?

He shot to the top of my favorite artists this year. His voice, his guitar work. Amazing.

Honorable Mention: Dwell Bible App

Why did this get an honorable mention?

2022 wasn’t the year I started using Dwell; I started that back in 2020.

But this year, it was such a part of my daily habits that I had to give it a shoutout. Trust me. This is one of the best ways to make the Bible part of your everyday life. I listen to the Bible every morning while I make coffee. That’s it. Simple. And powerful.

How about you? I am opening the comments on this article because I’d love to hear your favorite “things” of 2022. Maybe something you recommend will make my list next year!

Noel Jesse Heikkinen

10 Things I Loved in 2022