“By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.”
This ministry was started by four men who, by going on mission trips, witnessed firsthand the wonder of God working in remote areas of the world, namely one particular church in Chiang Rai, Thailand. There they saw not only that the faith of these people were great, but also that the church and community there needed help. The church was struggling to feed and provide an education for the children they were caring for.
These men were reminded that God's church is a global one and that their time and resources needed to extend far beyond their local community. Thus God gave each of them a heart to start REACTS ministries, an organization that would no longer be idle and wait for others to bring aid to children in need, but one that would and could react immediately in love through actions and truth to do whatever possible to further God's love and blessings to those children.
The name REACTS was decided upon after looking into the Bible and reading about the fellowship of believers in Acts 2 as well as 1 John 3:16-18. John states that as Christians we need to love not only with words and speech but with actions and in truth. He affirms that our acts of love should be an immediate reaction and response to what we've seen from those that are in need. All too often, Christians take God's blessings and forget that we are called to be a blessing to others as well. Whether it be in regards to acts of love or reacting to people's needs, REACTS ministries is dedicated to bringing love in action rooted in God's word.
Benson Chiu, Board Member
I would like to be known as a good husband, a good dad to my kids, but more importantly I hope to be known as a good and faithful servant to my Heavenly Father. In 2006, I was given the opportunity to go on my first mission trip to Thailand. There, God shattered my perspective on how my life should be. It was there where God started opening my eyes to His Great Commission and reminded me that faith without deeds is dead. My reaction to His calling is to serve these kids who need to hear God's unconditional love for them.
Brian Lew, Board Member
I am a big kid at heart and a huge fan of games, whether it be video games, group games or board games. Whatever can bring a group of people together to hang out and have fun, I'm a fan of. I became a follower of Jesus in middle school and have enjoyed a life-changing relationship with God ever since. It was not coincidence that God placed on my heart the desire to impact and help support global missions at the same time as the other guys of REACTS. Through being a part of missionary work, God has shown me that He is the ultimate game master, in control of all things great and small. I'm just glad to be part of the story of His glory. God has blessed me with a supporting and loving wife and three energetic and enthusiastic kids.
Brian Louie, Board Member
I am a follower of Jesus Christ, a husband to Vicky and a father to two young children. I am a carpenter at heart and make a living as a technology director. God called me to missions through Francis Chan's book, Crazy Love. Through this book, God convicted me to help serve those who aren't capable of helping themselves, that it is not okay to just think good thoughts for these people but to be called to action and do something about it. May God be glorified through my life.
Clifton Jang, Board Member
I was born and raised in San Francisco and absolutely love our city! The people, the food, the vibe, and our sports teams! Passionate about bringing the good news of Jesus Christ to the world. Especially to those who are marginalized, oppressed, and whose voices aren’t heard. Showing God’s love not just in word, but also in meeting tangible needs.
M.E. Watanabe, Board Member
I am a proud father and husband. I grew up on a farm in Idaho. I have a big interest in art, design, and vintage motorcycles. I have a huge passion for supporting youth development and youth related missions. In 2005 when I was taken on a trip to Northern Thailand to serve in a children's home. That is where I accepted Jesus as my savior. My interaction with the kids there changed my life. That is where my passion to work with youth in Thailand and at home began. I have been blessed to be able to return and serve in Thailand many times. I believe that by building up youth - we are building the future at home and abroad. I am simply trying to do my best and let God do the rest.
Nungruethai Khamkhuen, Board Member
Sawatdee Kha. I was born into a broken family where my grandparents raised me. Being without my mom and dad in my youth led me to search for meaning of true love. By God's grace I came to know that Jesus is my true love through a Bible study. After high school Jesus called me into ministry at Khaodee Children Home in Thailand where I worked for 13 year to share His love to the children. Now I am married with 2 kids and still want to share God's love with the underprivileged and hope that my children will do the same.
Jenny Fu, Fundraising & Special Events Director
Some of my loves and things I enjoy most: fitness, sports, coffee, yummy greens, people, and serving God. I have a huge passion for bringing people together, and event planning: seeing and being a part of how God pieces bodies and talents together for a greater purpose. My heart lies in working with people living in poverty, and those lacking the support of people, family, resources and other means. I believe the time given for me on this earth and with the people God has placed in my life are gifts to be valued and never taken for granted. Therefore, I strive to make the most of what I've been gracefully given, and to faithfully love others as Christ loved, and has shown to me.