Illustrate a celestial-themed digital artwork inspired by Matthew 5:12 - 'Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.' In the composition, incorporate visual elements to convey the concepts of rejoicing, gladness, reward, and heavenly realm. Ensure to incorporate references to historical prophets often depicted in ancient texts expressing the theme of persecution. The image should be luminous and ethereal, capturing the ecstatic joy and heavenly reward promised in the verse.