An Unconventional Christmas - Mother Maddaline Norfleet

Date: December 21, 2025

Messenger: Mother Maddaline Norfleet

Message Title: An Unconventional Christmas

Key Scriptures: Luke 1:5–7; Luke 1:24–25; Luke 1:29–30; Luke 1:39–45; Luke 2:36–38; John 10:10

Message Overview

This message reminds us that the coming of Jesus did not happen under perfect, peaceful, or predictable conditions—and neither does God’s work in our lives today. Mother Norfleet teaches that disappointment, fear, grief, and delay do not cancel God’s promises. Through the lives of Elizabeth, Mary, and Anna, we see that God meets His people in broken, confusing, and painful seasons to bring purpose, hope, and redemption. Even when Christmas feels heavy and unconventional, Jesus is still present, still powerful, and still enough.

Key Points

God Often Works Through Unconventional Seasons

Scripture: Luke 1:5–7

Elizabeth was righteous, faithful, and obedient—yet barren and advanced in age. Her story shows that living for God does not guarantee a pain-free life.

Takeaway: Don’t measure God’s favor by your circumstances—His promises are still at work.

Delay Is Not Denial

Scripture: Luke 1:24–25

Elizabeth’s womb was closed for years, not as punishment, but because God’s timing was connected to a greater purpose.

Takeaway: What God is holding back may be aligning you with something bigger than you can see.

Guard What God Is Growing in You

Scripture: Luke 1:24

Elizabeth hid her pregnancy, protecting what God was doing from doubt and negativity.

Takeaway: Not everyone needs access to what God is birthing in you.

Fear Cannot Cancel God’s Favor

Scripture: Luke 1:29–30

Mary was troubled and afraid, yet highly favored. God did not withdraw His call because of her fear.

Takeaway: You can obey God even while you are afraid—do it scared.

Purpose Is Confirmed When Faith Meets Faith

Scripture: Luke 1:39–45

When Mary and Elizabeth connected, purpose recognized purpose, and the Holy Spirit confirmed God’s work.

Takeaway: Stay connected to people who can affirm what God is doing in you.

Grief Does Not Disqualify You From Calling

Scripture: Luke 2:36–38

Anna grieved her husband for decades, yet remained faithful in prayer and fasting. When Jesus appeared, her grief gave way to praise and proclamation.

Takeaway: Jesus can meet you in grief and reignite your purpose.

Jesus Is the Center—Not the Season

Scripture: John 10:10

Christmas is not about perfection, tradition, or appearances—it is about Christ bringing life abundantly.

Takeaway: When Jesus is restored to the center, healing and hope follow.

Scripture References

• Luke 1:5–7

• Luke 1:24–25

• Luke 1:29–30

• Luke 1:39–45

• Luke 2:36–38

• John 10:10

Notable Quotes

• “Living for God does not guarantee that you are hurt-free.”

• “Delay is not denial—it’s alignment.”

• “Don’t let bitterness rob you of what God still wants to do.”

• “Do it scared—the Holy Ghost is here.”

• “The moment Jesus enters the temple, grief loses its power.”

• “This Christmas, I don’t have much to offer you—but I have Jesus.”

Reflection & Discussion

1. Have you ever experienced a season where things went wrong when they were supposed to go right? How did you respond?

2. What promises from God feel delayed in your life right now?

3. Are there things God is asking you to protect instead of explain?

4. How does Mary’s obedience challenge the way you handle fear?

5. In what ways has grief affected your faith or worship?

6. What would it look like to make Jesus the center of this season, regardless of circumstances?