"Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people. They all ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. The number of those who ate was four thousand, besides women and children." -- Matthew 15:36-38

A crowd has gathered and is not going away.  Jesus' disciples are fretting because there's no food with which to feed them.  It's easy for most of us to connect with the first part of the story-- the "need" side of it.  We know what it's like to be hungry-- perhaps not starving in the literal sense, but just hungry and ready to eat.  We know what it's like to feel like we need more material things-- money, clothes, housing, cars, etc.  The spiritual place we want to move toward is the other side of the story-- the "contentment" side.  With only seven loaves and a few small fish, thousands of people were satisfied that day.  A few paragraphs later, Jesus warns his followers to beware the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.  Immediately they begin to process this and think it's because they forgot to bring bread.  Then they realize it's not about bread or yeast at all, but about their teachings.  As you mature in the faith, your appetite for material things begins to wane.  Having them is nice and all, but you come to realize that the creature comforts don't provide spiritual nourishment.  When you find yourself wanting more, examine your desire.  Will the material thing you're wanting really come to satisfy your hunger, or will you just then be hungry for more?  Seek ye first the kingdom of God.  Then all these things shall be given unto you.

Readings:  Genesis 48:1-49:33; Matthew 15:29-16:12; Psalm 20:1-9; Proverbs 4:20-27