Srila Rupa Gosvami says that the holy name is even more merciful than the form of Krsna because it is the shelter where one seeks forgiveness. The holy name thus gives hope and confidence and stimulates the type of emotions that inspire a strong need to chant more and more. This state of dependency is the best catalyst for deeper meditation.
Interview for Dhanurdhara's Swami book, "Japa Meditations, Contemplations on Entering the Holy Name"