A prophetic mission often begins in private before transitioning to the public square. After being dedicated in secret and shown difficult visions of coming destruction, Jeremiah receives the official launch of his public calling. Although the ultimate goal of these messages is to rebuke the people of Jerusalem and bring punishment [צאינה וראינה], God approaches the prophet with deep sensitivity to his emotional state. Jeremiah felt afraid and hesitant to step in front of the crowds for the very first time with nothing but harsh and painful news.
To ease his fears, God gives him a fresh, separate message. He provides a prophecy that begins specifically with words of comfort and kindness, which Jeremiah can proclaim openly in the streets of Jerusalem. This gentle introduction marks a dedicated, new beginning for his public speeches [אברבנאל].
This opening serves as a foundational introduction to all the warnings of disaster that follow throughout the book. It reveals that even within the severe punishments and suffering God plans to bring upon Israel, He never forgets His ancient covenant and deep love for them. God's actions are compared to a father who is angry with his son and hands him over to cruel messengers for punishment. Even as the discipline occurs, His heart aches with mercy for the beaten child, and eventually, He will turn His wrath against those cruel attackers and punish them [מלבי״ם].
Through this initial message, God reminds the nation of their historical merits. He recalls the days of their ancestors, the acceptance of the Torah at Mount Sinai, and their journey through the desert filled with miracles. This memory serves as a clear signal that if the people repent, God will welcome them back and forgive their sins. Furthermore, it highlights that the Israelites are entirely holy to God. They are compared to a sacred offering that outsiders are strictly forbidden to consume. Because of this sacred status, any foreign nation that dares to harm them will face severe consequences [אברבנאל].