How is Balasaheb Deo's story used to illustrate Sai Baba's relationship with his followers?

Balasaheb Deo's story is presented as a prime example of how loving and affectionate Sai Baba is toward his devotees, particularly those with a genuine interest in spiritual matters. Chapter 41 introduces his experience to show that Sai wards off all the difficulties of his followers and gives them the "company of self-bliss." Deo's struggle to read the Dnyaneshwari and his subsequent vow to wait for Baba's command serve as the setup for a leela where Sai is expected to fulfill the devotee's wish and grant him the "addition of devotion," thereby demonstrating Baba's deep connection and compassionate nature.