Why is the story of Damu Anna included in the Shri Sai Satcharitra, and what is its intended effect on the reader?

The story of Damu Anna is included as a report to demonstrate Sai Baba's profound love for His devotees and how He protects them from misfortune. As Chapter 25 explains, the story is intended to show that once a devotee establishes one-pointed faith, Sai Baba grants their desires and removes their suffering. The author suggests that by listening to this 'novel story' with reverence and an attentive heart, the listener's own difficulties will vanish and their heart will be filled with joy. The tale, though short, is described as being 'very pure in its meaning' and serves to help the devotee's mind experience the Guru-Mother as an 'Ocean of Mercy.'