I think this is a pretty good reflection. I think that in order to understand Pope Francis's view of mercy we need to understand his reading of Jesus. In the Gospels we see Jesus taking two approaches when it comes to the Law. On the one hand does emphasize adherence to the law saying "Whoever disobeys even the least important commandment and teaches others to do the same will be the least in the Kingdom of heaven"(Matthew 5:19).  So Jesus is clear that adherence to the principles of the Law is required. At the same time Christ in his application of the Law emphasizes mercy as seen in the woman in Adultery(John 8). 

In the same way when it comes to Pope Francis, he emphasizes adherence to Church doctrine. But he also emphasizes mercy in his application of Church doctrine. This approach may no be satisfying to either conservative or liberal partisans, but on the face of it it does seem to be the most faithful reading and practice of Jesus's teachings.