When we read the words "Nachamu Nachamu Ami" ("My nation shall be very comforted") we feel soothed and comforted as the Navi Yeshayahu is truly directing his words at us. R' Shimon Schwab zt”l writes that the double expression of "Nachamu" refers to the end of the first golus in Bavel after 70 years, and the second golus initiated by Rome, known as "Golus Edom." It is this long and bitter exile that has lasted 1,945 years and - it is our fervent hope - not a minute longer! It is this long and terrible golus that will end with the words of nechama - comfort, that have been prophecized so long ago.

     In truth, there are actually two types of consolation. They are found in the first two posukim of this haftorah. R' Shamshon Raphael Hirsch zt”l explains that the second posuk: "דברו על לב ירושלים" - "Speak to the heart of Jerusalem," is describing the way Moshiach and the leaders of the Jewish people will "speak to the heart" of Klal Yisroel. They will address and soothe the strong emotions of the people who suffered so terribly through the bitter years of exile and suffering. The word "Lev" (heart) is written here in the singular, because at that time, when Moshiach arrives, all of Klal Yisroel will be - "כאיש אחד בלב אחד" - "Like one man with one heart." This is the prerequisite for Moshiach's arrival.

     However, the Navi first addresses our intellect with the words "נחמו נחמו עמי". These words speak volumes about the perfect justice of Hashem. When Moshiach comes, it will be so clear that everything that happened to our small and battered nation collectively (first Nachamu) and individually (second Nachamu) was good and necessary for the Master Plan of the World.

     We just concluded a period of mourning and despair. Now, we must realize that the geula is coming and rejoice in its imminent arrival! Hope amidst despair - this was the middah of the great Rabbi Akiva. While all the other Tannaim saw destruction and cried in despair, only Rabbi Akiva foresaw the rebuilding and smiled for the future. Although we just mourned over the Churban Bais Hamikdash, we can still be comforted this Shabbos Nachamu with an even greater nechama as we anticipate the Geulah Shleima.