We know the gospel well enough to know that we are not in any way saved or justified by our works. We are saved to good works, and not by them (Eph. 2:8-10). At the same time, we know that God is mindful of our works, placing them at the point of fruit on the branches, and not at the point of the roots in the ground.
With that understanding, the apostle Paul commends those who by patient labor or work seek for glory, honor, immortality, and eternal life (Rom. 2:7). This Table is the Table of your salvation, it is the food and drink of salvation, and we may apply Paul’s words from another context—the one who refuses to work should not eat (2 Thess. 3:10).
When the Lord speaks to the seven churches of Asia, He says to them all that He knows “their works.” To five of the churches, the word is spoken as a kind encouragement, and it is stern to only two of the churches—Smyrna and Laodicea.
God knows your works. God knows your labors. He knows the weight you carry. He knows what about your tasks is a temptation to great discouragement. In that condition, He offers you this cordial. He knows you, and He set this Table. You are resting in the finished work of Christ alone, and yet at the same time—indeed, because of Christ’s work—God knows your works.
So come, and welcome, to Jesus Christ.