A reverse flow regenerative reactor having first and second zones, each having first and second ends, the first zone having a plurality of channels capable of separately conveying at least two components of a combustible gas mixture, a gas distributor configured for injecting the components of the combustible gas mixture into first zone, a combustion zone including a selective combustion catalyst disposed at or downstream of the second end of said channels for catalyzing combustion, wherein the second zone is positioned and situated to receive a combusted gas mixture. Processes usefully conducted in the reactor are also disclosed.