"my understanding from the FAQS is that jumping is only suggested as a test procedure that should not be left in place because it will discharge the battery."

That may be so for certain relays (could you point me to that FAQ bit?) but certainly not the RSR, which is activated (same as jumpered) by the Fuel relay, which in turn is only activated when cranking and running.

"is there a way to permanently bypass the relay that will not create problems."

The "U" bypass I suggested will not create any problems. But I have read of problems with the terminals in the connector plug. For that I would:

1) As a precaution, disconnect the Battery negative (the RSR Red wire is hot from the battery).

2) Cut the Red and Green wires free of the harness plug, then strip some insulation and connect both wires together by soldering or crimp splice.
[Don't even think of using a wire nut like I just did;-)]

3) Securely insulate the bare splice with heat shrink or tape before reconnecting the Battery negative.

4) Make a note of this modification in the owners manual or someplace where the next owner/wrench can see it.

Below is an RSR jumper made from the sawed off end of a 240 window switch. The terminal O.D. and spacing are a perfect match for the RSrelay connector.
A soldered strip of sheet copper connects the covered ends of the terminals.


--
Bruce Young, '93 940-NA (current), 240s (one V8), 140s, 122s, since '63.