There was a man who felt that over time he really didn't need to come to church anymore. He came to believe that he was perfectly content to worship God from the comfort of his home at any time he wished.

After some time, his pastor paid him a visit. Ringing the door bell the pastor waited patiently for the door to open. When it did, the man was surprised to see his pastor standing there.

"Hello Pastor! What brings you by my house today?"

The pastor explained that he and the congregation have missed him at church on Sundays, and he wanted to see if he could be of any help.

The man invited the pastor into his home and made him a cup of tea. They moved into the living room to talk in front of the warm fireplace.

The man proceeded to explain.

"I don't know Pastor. I just feel like I don't need organized religion anymore to worship God. I'm perfectly happy here by myself. God knows I'm here and I can worship him any time I want."

The pastor said nothing, but smiled slightly as he listened, and the two of them continued to gaze into the fire.

Eventually, without saying a word, the pastor got up and picked up the tongs beside the fireplace, and removed just one of the red hot coals from the middle of the fire and placed it to the side and quietly sat down again.

The two men watched in silence as the coal changed from red, to gray, to black, and then went cold as a bit of smoke disappeared into the air.

After a few moments, the man looked over at his visitor and said with a calm voice, "I'll see you on Sunday Pastor!".