Word had gotten out that my American neighbor had done makeup for several of her friends’ weddings. When our Chinese colleague was planning her special day, she asked for help. The two looked over pictures and discussed cosmetics. Our friend commented on the natural look of the models. They decided on a demonstration day and I joined them just in time to see the finished product. Both were looking into a mirror obviously pleased. While we took some pictures, the door opened and in walked the bride’s closest childhood friend, carrying a makeup case. With the tiniest of smiles she asked if we’d had fun, took out a tissue and some cream and began to rub off the morning’s work. We never found out our friend’s thoughts. But the wedding saw a very different look from that day. 

Certainly, every country has a cultural eye beholding what it defines as physical beauty. And we outsiders have our moments of wonder – at a wedding or beauty pageant, outside a movie theater, or simply being shown our friend’s fiancé; “the most handsome man ever!” Really, we think? 

As an English teacher my classrooms have been full of young girls; a large part of them dissatisfied with something about their physical appearance. This discontent can lead from merely pity to cruel comparisons to binge diets, surgical procedures, and serious depression. 

What do I, their teacher and sometimes confidant, say to them? The Bible speaks little of makeup, weight, height, nose length, and eye shape. All things my freshmen girls could often talk about for hours.  

No matter how silent the Word may seem on specifics of beauty it is very clear on Who made us. Who decides our worth. Whose beauty can change us. Who makes all things beautiful. We are created in God’s image, Genesis tells us. Paul reminds us we are created for good works and that lasting beauty is a gentle and quiet spirit. David uses his poetry to powerfully encourage us; “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”  

“Oh God, may your beauty rest upon us.”