Many of the former Soviet countries have a huge New Year’s Eve celebration. That’s why they put up artificial trees in their homes, bake special treats, and even buy a gift for the family. However, many people from the former Soviet Union do not understand that Christmas is a different holiday than New Year’s Day. Pray for the local church in Istanbul to be a bright light during the Christmas season, using every opportunity to tell others that God is with us. “‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel’ (which means, God with us)” (Matthew 1:23 ESV).