1. The title, "What is Faith?", basically points you directly toward the key idea. We have to determine what Faith is. I think the key idea of this section is the distinction between secular faith and religious Faith. I think most people easily confuse these two or simply think they mean the same thing. Religious Faith is, intellectually and spiritually, putting your entire belief and trust in God, while secular faith is a more deep allegiance.
2. One idea I want to remember is the Iraqi suicide bomber and how faith applies to him.
Some may argue that Marwan's conscience is slightly distorted, but to me, there is no
question that this is a man of faith and Faith. He has faith in his fellow Iraqis, and that they can defeat the Americans. Marwan is definitely a man of Faith. He has such an unwavering belief in Allah that he does not fear the moment of his death, and actually looks forward to it because he believes Allah will greet him and grant him forgiveness.
The second idea I want to remember is video clip from the Andy Griffin Show. I am not sure about everyone else, but I have a soft spot for those old kind of sitcoms. They can entertain while driving home a real worthwhile message. Here, we are entertained by the incredible misunderstandings but leave with what Andy gives us as a good view of faith. No matter how ridiculous Opie's description of Mr. McBeevee is, Andy still has faith that Opie is telling him the truth. This idea of the section lacks the religious Faith, but it makes up for it with a great example of secular faith.
3. To me, a great example of faith would be the protesters at the Tiananmen Square Protests of 1989. These people, composed mainly of students and unhappy citizens, had faith in each other and the righteousness of their cause. These protests did not have much relious Faith, considering they were only protesting government. Nonetheless, I believe these people were great examples of faith in general. (Sidenote: This man in the picture, also has to have some faith in the natural goodness of humans, trusting that he would not be harmed.)
4. On how Faith applies here and now, most people my age are starting to question former beliefs and form a religious identity. We will need to put Faith into the religion we choose, or else our inclusion in the religion would be pointless. We would be in that religion just for the sake of claiming to be part of a certain group. Also at this age, we are going to have problems that are going to need help or support. We need to have faith that those who love us will do what is right for us.