But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven… – Matthew 6:20, KJV

In Matthew 6:20, Christ admonished us to lay up for ourselves treasures in Heaven. One such treasure is the Crown of Rejoicing or Exultation, which He awards for those who faithfully make disciples of the lost.

In 1 Thessalonians 2:19 (KJV) Paul writes, “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” In Philippians 4:1 (KJV) Paul says, “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.” These two verses exemplify Paul’s life purpose, which was to evangelize the lost and disciple the brethren. He held nothing back as he endeavored to live out the Great Commission, and he expected to be granted a reward in Heaven in return for his service in this matter.

Many Christians will be terribly sad in Heaven one day when the Savior passes them by while handing out Crowns of Rejoicing. Never having made the effort to share the Gospel in word or in deed (such as handing out Gospel tracts, sending letters to lost loved ones, or passing out Bibles to those who have none), they will have no trophies of evangelism/discipleship to share with The Lord. In return, He will have no Crown of Rejoicing to share with them.

As you look into your eternity, will you receive a Crown of Rejoicing for your efforts to fulfill the Great Commission? Or, will you have tears in your eyes because you are one of the many The Lord passes by?