What is the value of faith?

[zenmaster]

In other words, in my intention and practice of being faithful am I actually drawing to myself more catalyst that is meant to test my faith? Or by being more faithful does the catalyst become more subtle?

More fundamentally, intention and practice of any state/disposition/distortion must necessarily call a balance to itself. The less distortion, the more subtle the catalyst, until faith is harmonious with "what is".

So, let me see if I have understood your comment. It appears to me that you are saying- to the degree one grasps at any particular quality is to the degree that the contrast dial is turned up in their experience. Is this an accurate characterization?

To the degree that one grasps any particular quality is the degree that that quality has been made available.

If the contrast dial is turned up, but at the same time there is a lesser distorted or smoothed view, that would seem to be contradictory. But that's what occurs in balancing. There is more distinction or contrast possible, but less distinction actually required or a simplification made on what is grasped.

If this is the case, then I would be inclined to conclude that, rather than seek to become more faithful, one would seek to become more present.

Seeking generally tends to lead one to the present.