C.S. Lewis

The first pilot spoke vehemently. "You know, I believe in God. I have met Him sometimes in the beauty of a sunset or flying high in the heavens. But I have not patience with the church and its talk of Christian doctrine and theology. Why do I need to go to church when I can experience God on my own?"

Nonplussed, Lewis responded politely. "I have no doubt you have experienced God through the splendors of nature. I have as well. But isn't it possible that God hasgiven you these glimpses of His glory because He desires you to seek Him and truly know Him?"

The pilot pushed his cap off his forehead and shrugged.

"Just as we need a map and a guide to learn about an unknown country," Lewis continued, "we need the Holy Scriptures and other believers to help us learn more about God. God wants to offer you life eternal as well as a personal relationship with Him. You shouldn't be satisfied with a few isolated experiences that have left you with good feelings when you could have so much more. You're selling God and yourself short. Think of a man who is content with a few glimpses of a beautiful woman when he could learn to love her and have her for his wife. You're content with a few moments of beauty when He is offering you infinite splendors."

Melanie M. Jeschke in her book, Evasions, 3rd book in the Oxford Chronicles

Melanie, I couldn't have said it better myself. :)