To be honest, it sounds like you have the perfect set-up. 700c w/ a 48/38/28 and 11-32 is what all decent German touring bikes run. I'd learn to ride in the 48T and use the large gears (21-32T) in the rear, even though it's cross-chaining. You'll get used to pushing the big front that way. In addition, you'll get stronger and have the psychological advantage of knowing that you're now using the 3-5 in the rear with the big gear up front instead of the 1-3 in the rear, as you did when you started.

I don't think that the cross-chaining will make that much difference in wear unless you ride a huge amount (3-5000 miles/year.)

Just my .02€