Kathie Lee Gifford on Faith: Embracing Jesus Beyond Religion

Kathie Lee Gifford is a woman of profound faith, yet she harbors a distinct aversion to organized religion. In a candid conversation, she shared her thoughts with an outlet, emphasizing, “I can’t stand religion. Religion puts people in chains. And Jesus comes to set us free.” This statement encapsulates her belief that a personal relationship with God is far more liberating than the constraints often imposed by traditional religious practices.

Gifford’s perspective resonates with many who have felt disillusioned by religious institutions. “What do you want?” she posed, challenging the status quo of faith. “You want to go someplace and sit in the same pew week after week… Or do you want to walk with a living creator of all things who loves you?” Her words invite us to consider our own spiritual journeys and the importance of cultivating a direct connection with the divine.

The 71-year-old television personality has faced significant challenges throughout her life, yet she credits her faith as her anchor during tumultuous times. “I could have never made it without it,” she confessed, reflecting on her past struggles. “I’d be in an insane asylum without Jesus.” Gifford’s openness about her hardships adds weight to her assertions; she has navigated both public and personal trials that could have derailed her. “You just cling tighter,” she said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining faith, especially in life’s darkest moments.

Her commitment to understanding the Bible is further demonstrated by her choice to prioritize biblical studies over traditional milestones, such as her high school prom and graduation. “I missed my prom and graduation to travel to Israel for a conference on biblical prophecy,” she recalled with a hint of humor, “I’m far more annoying now because I’ve learned so much.” This dedication reflects a deep desire to grasp the complexities of faith and scripture, which she believes can empower individuals in their spiritual lives.

Gifford’s quest for knowledge is not just personal; it stems from a recognition of the inadequacies of many translations and interpretations of the Bible. “There are so many terrible translations… you can’t grow unless you feast,” she noted, highlighting a common concern among theologians and scholars regarding the accessibility and accuracy of biblical texts. The saying “my people perish for lack of knowledge” resonates deeply with her, reinforcing her drive to delve into the original languages and teachings, particularly Greek and Hebrew.

Her latest work, “Herod and Mary: The True Story of the Tyrant King and the Mother of the Risen Savior,” reflects this scholarly approach. Inspired by the lesser-known narratives of biblical figures, Gifford’s project was initially envisioned as a film before evolving into a book with assistance from Dr. Bryan M. Litfin, a scholar in ancient Christianity. “If Jesus is the greatest story ever told, Herod is one of the greatest stories never, ever told,” she said, shedding light on a historical figure often overshadowed by the more celebrated narratives in the Bible.

Gifford’s storytelling prowess is evident in her assertion that her book is not just a religious text but a thrilling narrative that echoes contemporary fears. “What I sense in the world today is a far greater presence of fear,” she observed. This insight aligns with recent studies indicating a rise in anxiety and insecurity among people, regardless of their socio-economic status. The modern world, she argues, is fraught with unpredictability, and her work aims to address these fears through historical and spiritual lenses.

Despite her serious themes, Gifford also finds humor and drama within the scriptures. “The Bible’s filled with incredible stories of drama and betrayal,” she enthused, suggesting that many readers overlook the fascinating narratives woven throughout its pages. Her enthusiasm for the text is palpable, as she encourages others to engage with it beyond surface-level readings.

After leaving her role on the “Today” show in 2019, Gifford has continued to embrace her passion for storytelling, recently recording the audiobook for “Herod and Mary.” However, her journey hasn’t been without setbacks. Following a hip surgery, a fall led her to break her pelvis, an experience she navigated with characteristic humor, saying, “I thought I was stronger than I was.” Remarkably, her recovery was swift, which she attributes to divine intervention: “You are completely and totally healed by the grace of God,” her doctor told her, further cementing her belief in the power of faith.

As Gifford continues to share her insights and experiences, her narrative serves as a reminder of the strength found in personal faith, the importance of historical context in understanding scripture, and the enduring relevance of biblical stories in navigating modern fears. “Herod and Mary: The True Story of the Tyrant King and the Mother of the Risen Savior” is now available, inviting readers to explore these themes in greater depth.